Human Behavior and the Social Environment Social Systems Theory

Emphasizing the application of theory to practice, this text provides a comprehensive overview of the Human Behavior theories used at all levels of generalist social work practice - the individual, the social group, the family, the organization, and the community. The authors evaluate the theories and provide a framework that helps apply theory into practice. A generalist social work practice framework is used throughout.

Based on a generalist practice foundation, Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Social Systems Theory, 6/e, evaluates various human behavior theories and examines the basic concepts in each of the systems: the individual, the social group, the family, the organization, and the community.   .

 

New to this Edition:

• An expanded introduction to theory to show a direct connection between theory and practice, providing a framework for critical thinking as each new theory is presented in the text
• New information on rural communities as “adapting systems,” along with an emphasis on technology.
• A streamlined model of Social Systems Theory
• Information emphasizing the biological connection to psychosocial development theories
• A section on cognitive-behavioral theory, which complements the coverage of cognitive theory and behavioral theory
• Information on spirituality added to theories dealing with group process
• Three new organizational theories

 

“Strong theoretical foundation…Good emphasis on larger social systems…Coherent organization of the text…” -- JoDee G. Keller, Pacific Lutheran University

 

“I find that the focus on systems theory is excellent and by the time students are finished with the book they have a clear understanding of systems.” -- Donna R. Fiedler, La Salle University