Applying Theory to Generalist Social Work Practice

Applying Theory to Generalist Social Work Practice teaches aspiring social workers how to apply theory in real world practice. Fully aligned with the Council on Social Work Education's 2015 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, the book links theory to practice with clear, concise instruction including a discussion of evidence-based practice. Twelve commonly-used theories are thoroughly explained, with discussion of the strengths and limitations of each, and applied to real work with individuals, groups, families, communities, and organizations. The book includes case studies and first-person contributions from practicing social workers to illustrate the real-world scenarios in which different concepts apply. Critical thinking questions help students strengthen their understanding of the ideas presented. Tools including a test bank, PowerPoint slides, and an instructor's manual are available to facilitate classroom use, providing a single-volume guide to the entire helping process, from engagement to termination.

Practice is a core foundational course for future social workers, but many practice texts focus on skills while neglecting the theoretical basis for social work. Applying Theory to Generalist Social Work Practice fills that gap by covering both skills and theory in a single text.

• Examines the applications of prevailing social theories
• Covers the most common theories used in micro, mezzo, and macro practice
• Helps readers understand well-established approaches like strengths perspective, humanistic and client-centered, task-centered, and solution-focused brief therapy
• Shows how to apply major theories including ecological/system, cognitive/behavioral, conflict, empowerment, narrative, crisis, critical, and feminist

An effective social worker recognizes the link between theory and practice, and how the two inform each other to culminate in the most effective intervention and most positive outcome for the client. Applying Theory to Generalist Social Work Practice provides students with a roadmap to the full integration of philosophy and application in social work.

CAROL L. LANGER, PHD, MSW, is Department Chair and Professor of Social Work at Colorado State University—Pueblo. In addition to teaching the undergraduate course Human Behavior and the Social Environment, she researches experiential learning and its role in erasing stereotypes and myths about diverse populations.

CYNTHIA A. LIETZ, PHD, LCSW, is associate professor and coordinator of the Tucson program at Arizona State University. She teaches social work practice courses in the undergraduate and graduate programs, along with conducting research into the strengths that families employ in dealing with high risk situations like trauma and loss.