Social Work Practice: A Generalist Approach

by Louise C. Johnson, Stephen J. Yanca

This book has always introduced social work by providing a solid framework for the theory and methods of social work practice. The new edition incorporates CSWE requirements, including a stronger focus on the strengths or empowerment approach throughout, as well as greater emphasis on the environment. Part One provides a strong theoretical foundation for generalist practice, including examinations of the profession of social work; the knowledge, skills, and values required of a social worker; the social worker's role in facilitating change and growth; and social work as an intervention into human transactions. Part Two studies the interactional process involving the worker, various sizes of client systems, and the environment. Frameworks are provided for assessment of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities, along with examples of their use. Part Three covers every step of the change process in detail, including assessment, planning, direct and indirect practice actions, evaluation, and termination. Diversity and issues related to managed care and welfare reform are incorporated throughout the text and in case examples. For anyone interested in Social

461 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1988

Reviews

[Selmoore Codfish · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a text book for an advanced level course in Social Work written by Johnson et. al. The book is an explanation of how to do the everyday work of the practice. The book assumes that the reader or student understands sociology, psychology, and social work through policy analysis. Other courses in biology or anthropology would also be useful. Despite these requirements, the text was not full of technical language. Any interested person should be able to understand a fair amount of the writing.
I am reviewing the Canadian version. The authors have adapted the book for use by readers in Canada by providing basic review of relevant aspects of culture, bringing up issues of bilingual speakers, and making it relevant to politics, policies and changes occurring in Canada.
Each chapter has several examples of client cases. This is the best part of the text. The cases are insightful and related to the themes of the chapters. A few of the cases follow through the chapters and between chapters. This builds understanding of how each case evolves.
Some disadvantages of text are that it is very repetitive and often rambling. The receptiveness is partly necessary as the authors look at several phenomena from many different perspectives. However , that makes the reading tiring. Many times while reading this I felt that the authors should get to the point more quickly rather than rambling. Also, at times it seemed like they were providing too many lists. Working the lists into the narrative more would help make the reading flow.
Lastly, I felt the authors were very open the contribution that faith and religion could have. They specifically mentioned how it could be valuable, and many times vaguely talked of how “natural” (meaning community) systems could help.

[Ehab Atef]

good