Modern Social Work Theory is a worldwide best-seller renowned for its masterly overview and measured critique which come together to offer a complete and authoritative introduction to theories of social work practice. It draws on literature from across the world to trace the origins of social work ideas and how they develop, as well assessing their role and value based on scholarly debate and research.
Compact and clearly structured, the book breaks down key issues in a way that is easy for students to grasp. As with the previous edition, the book is composed of two parts: Part I presents a general discussion about the place of social work theory in practice, while Part II reviews groups of related theories, from psychodynamic perspectives to ideas about humanism, existentialism and spirituality. Within Part II, each chapter has been significantly developed to follow a common structure which supports navigability and reflects the likely manner in which students will approach the text.
Payne provides a balance between classic and contemporary theories (such as solution-focused and strengths-based approaches)
The author is renown for his ability to translate 'big ideas' into clear, authoritative prose
Complete coverage of social work theory, from classic perspectives to the very latest ideas
Clear and concise evaluations and comparisons of the major theories that inform social work practice
Case Examples and Pause and Reflect questions to encourage you to draw on your own experience and develop your thinking
Provides general discussion of the relationship between theory and practice and a comprehensive theory-by-theory breakdown of theoretical approaches for practice
new_to_this_edition
Theory chapters divided up based on the three objectives in the IASSW/ISFW global definition of social work
New content on whiteness theory, post-colonial approaches and critiques of multicultural and anti-racist theories
Full treatment of Relational Practice and Attachment Practice in separate chapters
More space given to Green social work and environmental approaches
Malcolm Payne
modern theory empowerment feminism social pedagogy social work trust practice