Decolonizing Human Behavior in the Social Environment: A Reader for an Anti-Oppressive Approach

Decolonizing Human Behavior in the Social Environment: A Reader for an Anti-Oppressive Approach challenges the socialization of preservice social workers by examining the complex features of individuals, families, groups, and societies and how they present themselves within the context of the multiple and simultaneous influences on behavior, cognitions, and emotions.

This text is divided into three distinct units. Unit I development at the individual level and the influences that shape human behavior, including adverse childhood experiences, identity development through social media, resilience, and chronic illness. Unit II focuses on interpersonal dynamics with articles that explore grief theories, the transgender experience, intergenerational trauma, privilege, and more. Unit III examines structural social systems such as institutional racism, religious-based prejudice, and structural violence.

Written to help social work students and professionals begin the process of decolonizing their education and practice, Decolonizing Human Behavior in the Social Environment is an essential and timely reader for courses and programs in social work. It is also an exemplary resource for practitioners at all levels.

Jemel P. Aguilar, Ph.D., LCSW is an associate professor of social work at Southern Connecticut State University, where he teaches social work courses in research, community-engaged research, mental health practice, foundational social work, and human behavior in the social environment. He holds a Ph.D. in social work and M.S.W. from the University of Minnesota.

Elisabeth Counselman Carpenter, Ph.D., LCSW is an associate professor of social work at Adelphi University, where she teaches courses on human behavior, clinical practice, and gender and sexuality. She is a licensed clinician in New York and Connecticut with an active private practice focusing on trauma and also serves as a corporate and community trainer and legal consultant. Dr. Counselman-Carpenter holds a Ph.D. from Adelphi University and an M.S.W. from New York University.