Description
Book SynopsisThe Life Model of Social Work Practice was the first textbook to introduce the ecological perspective into social work practice. This fourth edition brings it up to date by expanding and deepening this perspective, integrating contemporary theory and research findings with numerous case illustrations drawn from a wide range of practice contexts.
Trade ReviewAlthough a lengthy effort with 756 pages, [this fourth edition of
The Life Model of Social Work Practice] is an enjoyable book made possible through the authors' treatment practicality and use of many practice vignettes and practical case examples. Social workers in general will find this book useful with an array of client examples, and the social group workers will equally find the book helpful along with the identification of some impediments that the latter practitioners uniquely face. -- Maurice S. Fisher Outpatient Services, P.C., Roanoke, Virginia * Social Work with Groups *
This welcome new edition of
The Life Model of Social Work Practice does an excellent job of assessing and sharing recent advances without losing the integrity of the life model approach. The practice examples, dilemmas, and scenarios are highly engaging, drawing readers into the application of key skills and strategies. -- Carol S. Cohen, board member, Council on Social Work Education
The efficacy of
The Life Model of Social Work Practice spans generations. In 1999, as a doctoral student, I used it to examine Black gay men’s management of HIV. Today, my MSW students use it to examine oppression, COVID-19, and other impediments to environmental fit. This book is helpful in understanding the human condition. -- Robert Miller, editor of
The Qualitative Research in Social WorkThe fourth edition of
The Life Model of Social Work Practice, a towering classic in the field, remains highly relevant for contemporary issues facing society and social workers. This text should be required in all schools of social work as it elegantly integrates the levels of practice that distinguish our profession. -- Marion Bogo, author of
Social Work Practice: Integrating Concepts, Processes, and SkillsThis thoughtfully updated fourth edition of
The Life Model of Social Work Practice provides a transactional bridge between the person and the social environment that honors the profession’s commitment to individual change and social reform. The critically relevant integrated practice model in this text will serve as a much-needed compass for social work in unprecedented and complex times. -- Manny John González, Florida Atlantic University
Table of ContentsPreface
Note to Instructors
Acknowledgments
Part I. Overview1. Social Work Practice and Its Historical Traditions
2. The Ecological Perspective
3. The Life Model of Social Work Practice: An Overview
4. Culturally Competent and Diversity-Sensitive Practice and Cultural Humility
5. Assessment, Evidence-Guided Practice, and Practice Evaluation
Part II. The Helping Process in Life-Modeled PracticeInitial Phase6. Preparation: Settings, Modalities, Methods, and Skills
7. Beginnings: Settings, Modalities, Methods, and Skills
Ongoing Phase8. Helping Individuals, Families, and Groups with Stressful Life Transitions and Traumatic Events
9. Helping Individuals, Families, and Groups with Environmental Stressors
10. Helping Family Members with Maladaptive Communication and Relationship Patterns
11. Helping Group Members with Maladaptive Communication and Relationship Patterns
12. Helping with Maladaptive Relationship and Communication Patterns between Social Workers and Clients
Ending Phase13. Endings: Settings, Modalities, Methods, and Skills
Part III. Life-Modeled Practice at the Community, Organizational, and Political Levels14. Influencing Community and Neighborhood Life
15. Influencing the Practitioner’s Organization
16. Influencing Legislation, Regulations, and Electoral Politics
Appendix A: Individual, Family, and Group Assessments
Appendix B: Practice Monitoring—Records of Service
Appendix C: Practice Monitoring—Critical Incidents
Appendix D: Force Field Analysis
Notes
References
Index
