Introduction

I stated on another page that there are theories of social work, and theories for social work; in other words, there are theories that tell people what social work is and what it is for, and there are theories that social workers can use in their practice. The theories for social work can be broken down further into Meta-Theories and Practice Models. Meta-Theories are theories that can be widely used across the social work process, regardless of which model or theory of practice is being used. Practice Models are more specific and structured ways to ‘do’ social work.

In this section of the site I will be looking at four different Meta-Theories:

• Communication Theory
• Person-Centred Theory
• Ecological-Systems Theory
• Anti-Oppressive Practice

Communication Theory

The ability to communicate effectively is vital to social work. Skilled communication is as important to a social worker as the ability to handle surgical tools is to a surgeon. Without a sound underpinning of how communication workers, and why it so often breaks down, it is unlikely that a social worker will develop their communication skills as fully as possible.

Person-Centred Theory

Social work places respect of each individual at the heart of practice. Without an ability to show unconditional respect for each individual it is unlikely that a social worker will develop excellent practice.

Ecological-Systems Theory

People do not simply exist as isolated, disconnected individuals. Each person’s life is affected by the people and the social systems around them. It is vital that the social worker sees the person in their wider environment. So it is important to understand the ways in which different parts of a person’s personal and social work interact with each other.

Anti-Oppressive Practice

At the heart of good social work practice is a deep commitment to social justice. Many of the people social workers work with are facing prejudice, discrimination, and oppression. At the very least, social work practice should not add at that, and at its best social work should work to actively combat those things to liberate people from oppression and enable them to fully participate in society in ways that enhance their well-being and the well-being of society as a whole.

Last Updated by M. Allenby – 21.8.16