Description

Book Synopsis
In this clear and systematic book covering the both general practice concepts and theoretical insights, best-selling author Malcolm Payne shows you how to work with the main social work theories and practice techniques and pinpoint their strengths and limitations.

Trade Review
“With this book in hand, social work students and professionals have the best guide I have ever seen to explore and to apply social work theories.” Hans van Ewijk, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht
“This is another excellent textbook from, arguably, the leading social work theorist in the UK. The presentation of current debates in social work theory as well as graphical representations makes it clear and accessible.” Lesley Deacon, University of Sunderland
“This book will provide students and practitioners with an accessible introduction to a range of theory relevant to social work practice. It draws on a range of research evidence but synthesizes this in a way that will gives readers an easy access point into some complex areas of theory and practice. In the ‘things to think about’ section students and practitioners will find useful suggestions to help make the theory immediately relevant to their practice.” Autumn Roesch-Marsh, University of Edinburgh
“This concise text will serve as a first stop for social work students and practitioners eager to learn about the most commonly used social work skills, theories, and methods.” Barbra Teater, City University of New York
“Translating theories into the language of social work practice, Payne demonstrates how to use theory to tailor your approach to the individual, rather than treating every client the same.” Libor Musil, Masaryk University

Table of Contents
Introduction: practice from social work theory First contact and engagement Assessment Communication, advice, information Counselling Resilience, risk, safeguarding Humanistic person-centred practice Mindfulness practice Strengths and solution-focused practice Narrative practice Psychodynamic relationship-based practice Attachment practice Task-centred practice Crisis practice Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) practice Motivational interviewing Advocacy, human rights and welfare rights Empowerment, anti-oppressive practice and power Groupwork Community work and macro practice Systems practice Critical and structural practice Ending and critical reflection Ecological and green practice Feminist practice

How to Use Social Work Theory in Practice

    Product form

    £25.64

    Includes FREE delivery

    RRP £26.99 – you save £1.35 (5%)

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Fri 19 Jun 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Malcolm Payne

    1 in stock

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of How to Use Social Work Theory in Practice by Malcolm Payne

      Publisher: Policy Press
      Publication Date: 08/01/2020
      ISBN13: 9781447343776, 978-1447343776
      ISBN10: 1447343778
      Also in:
      Social work

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      In this clear and systematic book covering the both general practice concepts and theoretical insights, best-selling author Malcolm Payne shows you how to work with the main social work theories and practice techniques and pinpoint their strengths and limitations.

      Trade Review
      “With this book in hand, social work students and professionals have the best guide I have ever seen to explore and to apply social work theories.” Hans van Ewijk, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht
      “This is another excellent textbook from, arguably, the leading social work theorist in the UK. The presentation of current debates in social work theory as well as graphical representations makes it clear and accessible.” Lesley Deacon, University of Sunderland
      “This book will provide students and practitioners with an accessible introduction to a range of theory relevant to social work practice. It draws on a range of research evidence but synthesizes this in a way that will gives readers an easy access point into some complex areas of theory and practice. In the ‘things to think about’ section students and practitioners will find useful suggestions to help make the theory immediately relevant to their practice.” Autumn Roesch-Marsh, University of Edinburgh
      “This concise text will serve as a first stop for social work students and practitioners eager to learn about the most commonly used social work skills, theories, and methods.” Barbra Teater, City University of New York
      “Translating theories into the language of social work practice, Payne demonstrates how to use theory to tailor your approach to the individual, rather than treating every client the same.” Libor Musil, Masaryk University

      Table of Contents
      Introduction: practice from social work theory First contact and engagement Assessment Communication, advice, information Counselling Resilience, risk, safeguarding Humanistic person-centred practice Mindfulness practice Strengths and solution-focused practice Narrative practice Psychodynamic relationship-based practice Attachment practice Task-centred practice Crisis practice Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) practice Motivational interviewing Advocacy, human rights and welfare rights Empowerment, anti-oppressive practice and power Groupwork Community work and macro practice Systems practice Critical and structural practice Ending and critical reflection Ecological and green practice Feminist practice

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account