Colin Pritchard

First published in 1978, Social Work is concerned with relating social methods and objectives to political ideology. Social work grew out of the fertile tradition of mainstream Liberal radicalism in the nineteenth century, and to appreciate its largely implicit contemporary value framework it is essential to analyse the ideologies of ‘Conservatism’ and ‘social democracy’ which have dominated Britain in the twentieth century. The links between social work methods and aspirations and political ideology are thus explored in some detail. A key argument which closely involves social work relates to the potential for social change within the existing institutional structures. The question of ‘Legitimation’ is thoroughly examined in this context from all viewpoints, and the conclusions for social work development are discussed. This book will be of interest to students of social work, sociology and political science.

First published in 1978, Social Work is concerned with relating social methods and objectives to political ideology. Social work grew out of the fertile tradition of mainstream Liberal radicalism in the nineteenth century, and to appreciate its largely implicit contemporary value framework it is essential to analyse the ideologies of ‘Conservatism’ and ‘social democracy’ which have dominated Britain in the twentieth century. The links between social work methods and aspirations and political ideology are thus explored in some detail. A key argument which closely involves social work relates to the potential for social change within the existing institutional structures. The question of ‘Legitimation’ is thoroughly examined in this context from all viewpoints, and the conclusions for social work development are discussed. This book will be of interest to students of social work, sociology and political science.

Social workers deal with complex human situations every day. Invariably they do this with only partial knowledge of key factors, in situations that are dynamic and fast moving and often confronted by complex ethical and professional dilemmas. They need an up-to-date textbook that looks in detail at the evidence of who harms children, why people kill children and what good social work can achieve both at a micro and macro level. Featuring illustrations from practice as well as case studies and practical activities to aid learning, this book provides a holistic view of decision making as a core aspect of effective social work practice with at risk children and their families.

A practical guide to effective and evidence-based child protection social work

In Mental Health Social Work, Colin Pritchard draws on his many years of experience in research, teaching and practice in order to explore key issues for social workers who want to work in the mental health field. Mental health social work can be one of the most rewarding and one of the most frustrating areas of social work practice. Social workers need to have a good knowledge of interventions and their evidence bases, from pharmacology to psychotherapy, but also be able to work sensitively and effectively with both clients and carers in a rapidly changing context. Based on a series of case studies and research based practice, the book explores key topics including:the multiple factors affecting mental health the bio-psycho-social model of practice key areas including depression, suicide, schizophrenia and personality disorder the mental healthâ€"child protection interface residential work treatment modalities. Presenting new and challenging research findings in this field, this book will be invaluable reading for undergraduate social work students and for practising social workers.

In Mental Health Social Work, Colin Pritchard draws on his many years of experience in research, teaching and practice in order to explore key issues for social workers who want to work in the mental health field. Mental health social work can be one of the most rewarding and one of the most frustrating areas of social work practice. Social workers need to have a good knowledge of interventions and their evidence bases, from pharmacology to psychotherapy, but also be able to work sensitively and effectively with both clients and carers in a rapidly changing context. Based on a series of case studies and research based practice, the book explores key topics including:the multiple factors affecting mental health the bio-psycho-social model of practice key areas including depression, suicide, schizophrenia and personality disorder the mental healthâ€"child protection interface residential work treatment modalities. Presenting new and challenging research findings in this field, this book will be invaluable reading for undergraduate social work students and for practising social workers.