Psychoanalytic Theory for Social Work Practice

Written by practicing social workers and social work educators, this text analyzes modern psychoanalytic and psychosocial approaches to social work and relates them to current practices and values. Focusing on working with children and families, the text covers salient issues in social work practice including risk assessment, dealing with parents with drug and alcohol problems, supervision and management of emotional stress.

Throughout the book there is an emphasis on the realities of frontline practice, and looking at what can realistically be achieved. It also addresses the research evidence for this approach. With psychoanalytic and psychosocial approaches becoming increasingly popular, this text will be a welcome addition for professionals, students and social work educators.

Marion Bower is a Senior Clinical Lecturer in Social Work in the Child and Family Department at the Tavistock Clinic. She has worked in child, adolescent and adult mental health services for over twenty years. She is on the editorial boards of The Journal of Social Work Practice and The British Journal of Psychotherapy. She is co-editor of ‘The Emotional Needs of Young Children and Their Families-Using Psychoanalytic Ideas in Community Settings’

Routledge. She is also an adult psychotherapist in private practice.