Why This Book Is Needed
A conceptual introduction sets forth the book’s aim: to guide clinical social work students (and practicing clinicians) to explore assessment from a range of theoretical frameworks, each with its own emphasis, limitations, and form of evidence, and to think critically about what each perspective has to offer, takes for granted, omits, and counts as knowledge. It begins by exploring the meaning of the key terms “critical thinking,” “diagnosis,” and “assessment” and draws on both theory and research to trace how these concepts have been addressed in social work education and practice. Following an overview of the book’s structure and content, including introduction to the case of Ray (a case that will be used throughout the chapters and analyzed from each clinical perspective), the introduction concludes with specific suggestions for educators about ways to use the book to develop complex, reflexive, and critical thinking in their students.
Should DSM be the Basis for Teaching Social Work Practice in Mental Health? No!
It is ironic that we are having a debate about using DSM as the basis for teach ing social work practice in the field of mental health, because the approach taken in DSM contradicts many basic tenets of social work. Important social work per spectives—systems theory emphasizing the crucial role of families, small groups, and communities; a growth and develop ment model of human behavior; the indi vidualization of the client; a sensitivity and commitment to multicultural diver
The Environment: Its Role in Psychosocial Functioning and Psychotherapy
Part 1 Theory 1. The Environment in Emotional Experience2. The Development of Meaning3. Culture and Social ControlPart 2 Domination or Liberation? 4. Inner Life and the Possibility of Freedom5. Person and Environment Interactions6. Culture, Sexuality, and ImpingementPart 3 Implications for Practice 7. Concordance: The Therapeutic Culture8. The Importance of Relationships9. Symbolization: Connections Between Internal and External Worlds