" Reading this handsome new encyclopaedia it is hard not to feel renewed conviction in the social work mission. From cover to cover the commitment and depth of understanding, the skills and interventions come tumbling out in an exciting, revivifying cascade-effective tonic for jaded cynicism. <br /> <p><br /> </p> <p>Throughout the volume the vision and achievement of the editor are evident in the emphasis on constructive thinking and diversity of opinion." <i>John Pierson, Staffordshire University</i> <br /> </p> <p>"Davies's well designed encyclopedia surveys the field of social work and is related discipline." <i>Choice</i><br /> </p> <p>"The <i>Encyclopaedia</i> does fulfill its aim: 'to provide accurate, up-to-date and lively explications of key topics in social work and in fields that are closely related to social work theory or practice.' The <i>Encyclopaedia</i> successfully encompasses both the value base of social work and its evidence base ... I think it is a very useful and innovative volume ... It is a rich source of information about the broad church which is social work." <i>Journal of Social Work</i></p>
Editorial Advisers vi
Preface vii
Lexicon ix
List of Tables xvii
List of Figures xviii
A–z Entries 1
List of Contributors 381
References 389
Index of Names 395
Index of Subjects 404
The Encyclopaedia vigorously reflects the different and sometimes conflicting perspectives in social work: psychosocial research and evidence-based thinking, risk analysis, gender, cultural diversity, psychiatry, the law, management, human rights and personal value systems.
The interests of service users, other professional groups, the media and the public are portrayed, and the central role of social work in contemporary society is demonstrated by the depth and range of subjects covered. A strong emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary and inter-professional perspectives.
The Blackwell Encyclopaedia of Social Work offers an essential starting-point for anyone wanting to understand the place of social work in society today.