Generalist Social Work Practice: A Competency-Based Approach

A competency-based approach to generalist social work practice that integrates an anti-oppressive perspective and foundational practice principles.

Includes CourseConnect: Know It. Use It. Test It. – The Smarter Way to Learn and Succeed! 

This textbook aligns with the nine professional social work competencies defined by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) and is fully revised to incorporate the latest updates. It offers a comprehensive, chapter-by-chapter exploration of each competency and covers all areas of social work practice, including theory, ethics, human rights, social justice, and interventions at micro and mezzo levels.The second edition integrates the critical themes of anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI) to ensure future social workers engage thoughtfully and competently in diverse settings. Know, use, and test your understanding of course content with CourseConnect―an interactive learning platform included with your print purchase.  

What's New:

• Explicit focus on generalist social work practice
• Integration of anti-oppressive practice principles throughout
• Alignment with CSWE 2022 EPAS standards
• Combined assessment and intervention across chapters
• Expanded ADEI content in all chapters

Key Features:

• Provides comprehensive coverage of generalist practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Includes case studies, ADEI reflections, QR-linked videos, and chapter summaries
• Students gain competency-based skills to practice ethically, effectively, and inclusively
• Features instructor resources, presentations, discussion questions, and grading rubrics
• Written by experts in generalist social work practice, uniting theory, competencies, and applied learning

Maximize Your Learning with CourseConnect―Included with Your Print Purchase!

Enhance your textbook experience with CourseConnect, an interactive learning platform designed to help you engage more deeply, study smarter, and achieve success in your course.

• Master Complex Concepts―Interactive learning activities simplify concepts and improve comprehension and retention.
• Track Your Progress―Real-time analytics and self-assessments help you identify strengths and focus on areas for improvement.
• Study Anytime, Anywhere―Enjoy seamless access to your eBook and study tools whenever and wherever you need them.
• Help Whenever You Need It―Course Coach provides answers, summaries, and practice questions to keep you moving forward and build confidence.

Through purchase of this product, you'll get a license to continuous access to this CourseConnect course for as long as you need it, subject to our Terms of Use.

John Poulin, PhD, MSW, is a professor emeritus and adjunct professor at Widener University’s Center for Social Work Education in Chester, Pennsylvania, currently teaching the foundation field seminar in Widener’s online MSW program. In 2016, he retired from Widener University, where he taught generalist practice, research, and policy courses for 32 years.

Selina Matis, PhD, LCSW, LICSW,  is a licensed clinical social worker and Assistant Professor at Capella University. She received her doctoral degree in social work from Widener University. Additionally, she has a MSW (Master of Social Work), BS in Elementary Education and a MS in School Psychology all from PennWest University (formerly California University of Pennsylvania). Clinically, she has worked primarily in the mental health arena supporting children and their families in a variety of settings. She has specialized in treating trauma across the lifespan. She currently runs a private practice providing counseling, consultation, and supervision services.

Heather Witt, PhD, LMSW, MEd, is a licensed social worker, Associate Professor of Social Work, and BSW Coordinator at Boise State University. She received her PhD and MSW from Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania. As a clinical social worker, she worked with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults providing individual, group, family, and relationship therapy.