Macro Systems in the Social Environment

This text focuses on the importance of organizations, communities, society, and global influences in assessing human behavior in the social environment. It challenges students to probe the larger social context when viewing the complexities of human development. Designed especially to address the call for greater infusion of macro-level content into social work education, the book is ideal for courses on human behavior in the social environment and macro practice. To facilitate the integration of theory and content, the authors use different theoretical orientations to organize the chapters. These are followed by an analysis of developmental issues, a case example, a section in which macro-level influences are highlighted, a reintegration of theory section, and suggested activities.

Dr. Dennis D. Long is a Professor and Chairperson of the Social Work Department at Xavier University (Cincinnati, Ohio). He teaches courses in macro practice, human behavior and the social environment, and research. Dr. Long received his B.A. from Ohio Northern University, a MSW from The Ohio State University, and his Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati. His research interests involve the importance of larger social systems in social work practice. Dr. Long has authored numerous articles in professional journals as well as co-authored another text published by Brooks/Cole, MACRO SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE: A STRENGTHS PERSPECTIVE. He is a site visitor for the Council on Social Work Education, and currently serves as a board member for both Oesterlen Services for Youth Inc. and the Butler County Mental Health Board.