Social workers need to recognise the critical role that theory plays both in the way they make sense of what is going on and in the way they order their work. Such recognition clarifies practice for both the worker and the client. This book provides a framework to help social workers develop an understanding of the theories which inescapably underpin their thoughts and actions. David Howe identifies and explains the distinctive character of each of the major theories in social work. He describes, analyses and assesses social work in the psychoanalytic tradition, behavioural social work, systems theory, client-centred approaches, feminist social work and radical and Marxist practices. Through examples, the author demonstrates that different theories necessarily lead to very different practices. The result is a stimulating guide to social work theory which will help social workers both to understand their practices and to practise in a disciplined and imaginative way.

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