Creative Change: A Cognitive-Humanistic Approach to Social Work Practice - Softcover

Goldstein, Howard

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0422786500 ISBN 13: 9780422786508

Publisher: Routledge, 1984

Synopsis

Integrating modern cognitive theory, self-theory, and a humanistic philosophy, Creative Change sets forth a fresh, commonsense approach to social work with a broad range of individual, family, and group problems of living. Using the principles developed in Goldstein's earlier Social Learning and Change, Goldstein and his colleagues show how cognitive theory - which enables the helper to make sense of the daily conflicts of everyday life and relationships - can prove a powerful ally for the humanistic perspective, which especially considers the cultural symbols, ethical and moral principles, and spiritual beliefs that infuse life with meaning and purpose. By broadening the perceived reality of the client - allowing for the cognitive and interpersonal - the methodology presented here cuts across traditional and cultural boundaries of direct practice. This approach is particularly relevant to those clients who have always posed a serious challenge to professional the involuntary or so-called "hard to reach" clients from diverse cultural, ethnic, or national backgrounds; clients defined by society as deviant; and clients who are undervalued because of infirmity, illness, or age. Creative Change offers a model of practice that is enriched by numerous case examples. The various chapters illustrate ways of unraveling and working with the problems of the abusive family, the battered woman, the alcoholic, the mental patient in the hospital and the community, the chronically ill and dying patient, self-help groups, the rural poor, and the Vietnam veteran. For people who help people, students and practitioners alike, this book provides a perspective that will stimulate their imaginative, creative, and metaphorical talents.

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 1984
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0422786500
• ISBN 13: 9780422786508
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 306