Routledge Handbook of Social Work Theory

The Routledge Handbook of Social Work Theory provides an interdisciplinary and international introduction to social work theory. It presents an analytical review of the wide array of theoretical ideas that influence social work on a global scale. It sets the agenda for future trends within social work theory.Separated into four parts, this handbook examines important themes within the discourses on social work theory, as well as offering a critical evaluation of how theoretical ideas influence social work as a profession and in practice. It includes a diverse range of interdisciplinary topics, covering the aims and nature of social work, social work values and ethics, social work practice theories and the use of theory in different fields of practice. The contributors show how and why theory is so important to social work and analyze the impact these concepts have made on social intervention.Bringing together an international team of leading academics within the social work field and newer contributors close to practice, this handbook is essential reading for all those studying social work, as well as practitioners, policymakers and those involved in the associated fields of health and social care.

‘Bringing together high-profile international authors, this milestone book is a must-read for academics, social workers, policy makers, and anyone who wants an updated and deep knowledge of social work at a local and global level.’ - Annamaria Campanini, President, the International Association of Schools of Social Work, Professor in Social Work, Department of Sociology and Social Research, University Milano Bicocca, Italy‘Malcolm Payne and Emma Reith-Hall have edited a book that provides a unique and outstanding contribution to our understanding of social work theory. The book is broad in scope, contemporary, yet grounded in social work traditions of "ethics"; "theories of social work" and "social work practice". The contributors, experts in their field, from around the globe, bring diverse and creative views about the nature of social work theory and how theory can be realised through practice. A must-read book about social work theory.’ - Professor Steven M Shardlow, Professor Emeritus of Social Work, Keele University, United Kingdom

Malcolm Payne is Emeritus Professor, Manchester Metropolitan University and has worked in probation, local government social services, the local and national voluntary sector and in a hospice in the UK. He is the author of many books including Modern Social Work Theory, Older Citizens and End-of-life Care, and Humanistic Social Work. Emma Reith-Hall is a senior social work lecturer at Nottingham Trent University and a PhD student at the University of Birmingham. She remains involved in child and adolescent mental health practice.