Introduction
When considering theories related to social work it can be very helpful to make a distinction between ‘theories of social work’ and ‘theories for social work’. Although this might sound confusing when you first see or hear it, the distinction is clear and simple.
Theories of Social Work – these are theories that explain what social work is, why it exists, and what its ultimate goals are.
Theories for Social Work – these are theories that help social workers do their job well.
There are four main theories of social work, each of each produces a different model of social work. There are hundreds or even thousands of theories for social work.
Models of Social Work
The four main models of social work are:
- The Maintenance Model
- The Therapeutic Model
- The Managerial Model
- The Radical Model
The reality is that different social workers in different roles will use a different balance between the four models. Some will focus heavily on just one or two, others will use a mix of all four. Each model has its strengths and limitations.
To find out more about each of these, click on the icons below.
Maintenance Model
This model sees social work as primarily being about helping individuals, family, and communities to function effectively in society.
Therapeutic Model
This model sees social work as primarily being about promoting individual emotional well-being so as to overcome psycho-social problems.
Managerial Model
This model sees social work as primarily being about the effective and efficient delivery of social services to ensure people’s needs are met in a fair and cost effective manner.
Radical Model
This model sees social work as primarily being about transforming society as a to create a fairer, more just society.
Social Work Process
The Social Work Process
Having consider the four different models of social work, use the button opposite to look at the social work process.
Created by M. Allenby. Last updated by M. Allenby on 22.8.16