Human Behavior in the Social Environment

This new and updated edition of the vital human behavior textbook for graduate-level social work students emphasizes the biopsychosocial framework with a psychodynamic and developmental perspective, with updated information on contemporary thinking and the application of postmodern theory. Written from the perspective of a classroom teacher, faculty advisor, and clinician, Human Behavior in the Social Environment discusses current social issues such as older people, violence, and abuse.

The book approaches development through the life cycle, discussing the developmental challenges, tasks, and problems of each stage. Presenting complex concepts in a clear and understandable way, it also examines and integrates systems and organizational factors, as well as the impact of culture on clients and treatment programs. A helpful instructor's manual accompanies this text, and is available as a free download from http://www.routledge.com/9780789034182.


Human Behavior in the Social Environment looks at:




the biopsychosocial perspective

psychoanalytic and ego psychology theories

object relations, self psychology, and cognitive-behavioral theories

postmodern theories: constructivism, relational therapy, narrative theory, and resilience

social systems in the community

culture and diversity

forms and organizations of the family

internal family structures and special family problems

reproductive issues, infancy, and early childhood development,

middle childhood and adolescence

adult development

life transitions, turning points, crises, and loss

illness and disability; mental health problems

and much more!


With case vignettes, chapter-by-chapter learning exercises, and additional readings, as well as material from literary works, biographies, and newspapers, this copiously-referenced volume illustrates the complexities of human existence, the multiple social conflicts operating in society, and the relevance of social policy dilemmas.


While especially designed to benefit and enlighten graduate social work students it is also a valuable resource for undergraduate social work students as well as beginning and advanced readers in human services such as nursing, medicine, public health, clinical psychology, counseling, who will find this both a helpful review and source of new knowledge.