Karen M. Sowers – författare

Social work curriculum changes that really work.The Boyer Report and the Council on Social Work Education have placed expectations on universities and social work programs to make sure undergraduate students know how to develop, use, and communicate empirically-based knowledge. Building Excellence is a handbook for integrating research into undergraduate curriculums, using the curriculum of the University of Tennessee College of Social Work as an example. This unique book showcases social work research conducted by UT seniors, who were paired upon graduation with doctoral students who helped them place their research in publication form.Building Excellence demonstrates how universities can develop into communities of learners by strengthening critical thinking, independent thinking, and creative imagination at the undergraduate level. For several years, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has created opportunities for students to gain professional experience in their fields of interest through research projects that establish the connection between study and knowledge. The results of several projects conducted by UT seniors are presented here, reaffirming that faculty mentoring is crucial to this effort.Student research findings presented in Building Excellence examine:emotional and behavioral symptoms of sexually abused children using two symptom scales—internalizing and externalizing stress and strain experienced by personal care assistants caring for people suffering from dementia the relationship between childhood abuse and adult suicide the effectiveness of court-mandated treatment of recidivism among juvenile offenders barriers to effective medication adherence among the elderlyBuilding Excellence demonstrates how the University of Tennessee’s social work curriculum has enhanced student capacity and practice effectiveness. The book is an essential read for social work academics working at all levels.

Social work curriculum changes that really work.The Boyer Report and the Council on Social Work Education have placed expectations on universities and social work programs to make sure undergraduate students know how to develop, use, and communicate empirically-based knowledge. Building Excellence is a handbook for integrating research into undergraduate curriculums, using the curriculum of the University of Tennessee College of Social Work as an example. This unique book showcases social work research conducted by UT seniors, who were paired upon graduation with doctoral students who helped them place their research in publication form.Building Excellence demonstrates how universities can develop into communities of learners by strengthening critical thinking, independent thinking, and creative imagination at the undergraduate level. For several years, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has created opportunities for students to gain professional experience in their fields of interest through research projects that establish the connection between study and knowledge. The results of several projects conducted by UT seniors are presented here, reaffirming that faculty mentoring is crucial to this effort.Student research findings presented in Building Excellence examine:emotional and behavioral symptoms of sexually abused children using two symptom scales—internalizing and externalizing stress and strain experienced by personal care assistants caring for people suffering from dementia the relationship between childhood abuse and adult suicide the effectiveness of court-mandated treatment of recidivism among juvenile offenders barriers to effective medication adherence among the elderlyBuilding Excellence demonstrates how the University of Tennessee’s social work curriculum has enhanced student capacity and practice effectiveness. The book is an essential read for social work academics working at all levels.

Foster well-being in an institutional setting Human services workers are consistently discovering more about how important adult well-being is as a foundation of positive human development. Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments closely examines this relationship and provides creative strategies to improve outcomes for adults within institutional settings or systems. Leading experts discuss the latest research, offer insightful perspectives on adult development issues, and provide policy recommendations to effectively foster change. This important resource targets specific issues and provides practical answers to questions about how to positively affect human behavior by cultivating well-being. Social work professionals know that adult development and well-being are directly impacted by institutional setting. Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments explores current theory, literature, and studies on the various positive or negative influences institutions has on the self and intimate and social relationships. This text is extensively referenced and includes various tables to clearly present data. Topics in Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments include:the experiences of grandparents raising grandchildren full time as a result of military deployment various influences on the adjustment to long-term care how the onset of mental illness impacts a person’s sense of self and belief systemsand the value of the mental health system study of the impact of welfare reform policies on welfare and caregiving for low-income foster mothers the impact on normal sexual development for institutionalized individuals a study on the well-being of caregivers according to the kinship care arrangement burnout and turnover in social service organizations the impact of the United States Census on law, public policy, and distribution of privilege Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments is crucial, eye-opening reading for social work professionals, policymakers, researchers, educators, and students.

Foster well-being in an institutional setting Human services workers are consistently discovering more about how important adult well-being is as a foundation of positive human development. Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments closely examines this relationship and provides creative strategies to improve outcomes for adults within institutional settings or systems. Leading experts discuss the latest research, offer insightful perspectives on adult development issues, and provide policy recommendations to effectively foster change. This important resource targets specific issues and provides practical answers to questions about how to positively affect human behavior by cultivating well-being. Social work professionals know that adult development and well-being are directly impacted by institutional setting. Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments explores current theory, literature, and studies on the various positive or negative influences institutions has on the self and intimate and social relationships. This text is extensively referenced and includes various tables to clearly present data. Topics in Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments include:the experiences of grandparents raising grandchildren full time as a result of military deployment various influences on the adjustment to long-term care how the onset of mental illness impacts a person’s sense of self and belief systemsand the value of the mental health system study of the impact of welfare reform policies on welfare and caregiving for low-income foster mothers the impact on normal sexual development for institutionalized individuals a study on the well-being of caregivers according to the kinship care arrangement burnout and turnover in social service organizations the impact of the United States Census on law, public policy, and distribution of privilege Adult Development and Well-Being: The Impact of Institutional Environments is crucial, eye-opening reading for social work professionals, policymakers, researchers, educators, and students.

An expert introduction to the foundations of the social work profession—from its historical roots to its evolution in an era of evidence-based practice The Profession of Social Work provides a broad overview of the history, scope, values, ethics, and organizational framework of the social work profession. Exploring professional ethics and human rights, evidence-based practice and practice-guided research, as well as emerging trends and issues, this important book presents topics of critical importance to anyone considering a career in social work. Each chapter in the text offers an array of pedagogical features, including Key Terms, Review Questions for Critical Thinking, and Online Resources. Ideal for introductory courses for both undergraduate and graduate students, The Profession of Social Work features coverage closely aligned with social work accreditation standards (EPAS) and includes chapters authored by established scholars on topics including: Social work historySocial work educationProfessional credentialing and regulationsValues and ethicsThe strengths perspective in social work practiceEvidence-based practice and improving the scientific base for social work practiceContemporary issues in social workWith a wealth of insider insights into and guidance on the profession of social work, this book is essential reading to prepare for a career in this field.

A contemporary look at social work practice and the many career possibilities—with detailed coverage of important new and emerging trendsAs the practice of social work continues to diversify, students need a clear picture of the current state of the field and an up-to-date source of information and guidance on emerging career opportunities. Social Work Fields of Practice provides both.Written by a team of experts in their respective specialties, this book features a comprehensive overview of contemporary social work practice, discussing historical trends and demographics, professional issues, ethics, and diversity for each practice area. Both traditional areas and new fields are considered from a variety of perspectives, including the clinical, ethical, cultural, legal, theoretical, and technological.Addressing the Council on Social Work Education's required competencies for accreditation (EPAS), Social Work Fields of Practice contains pedagogical features such as Key Terms, Review Questions for Critical Thinking, and Online Resources. It is the most timely, all-encompassing resource of its kind, covering: Child welfareFamily-centered practiceSchool social workSubstance abuseMental healthSocial work disability practiceGerontological social workForensic social workVeterinary social workMilitary social workInternational social workSocial work practice with immigrant and indigenous populationsWith expert, in-depth discussions of the most important specialties and practice environments for today's social worker, Social Work Fields of Practice is an invaluable resource for undergraduate and graduate students preparing to enter this noble profession, as well as social workers seeking to expand their professional horizons.

An accessible and engaging guide to the study of human behavior in the social environment, covering every major theoretical approachProviding an overview of the major human behavioral theories used to guide social work practice with individuals, families, small groups, and organizations, Human Behavior in the Social Environment examines a different theoretical approach in each chapter—from its historical and conceptual origins to its relevance to social work and clinical applications.Each chapter draws on a theoretical approach to foster understanding of normative individual human development and the etiology of dysfunctional behavior, as well as to provide guidance in the application of social work intervention.Edited by a team of scholars, Human Behavior in the Social Environment addresses the Council on Social Work Education's required competencies for accreditation (EPAS) and explores: Respondent Learning theoryOperant Learning theoryCognitive-Behavioral theoryAttachment theoryPsychosocial theoryPerson-Centered theoryGenetic theoryEcosystems theorySmall Group theoryFamily Systems theoryOrganizational theory

A solid, theory-to-practice guide to contemporary mezzo and macro social workWritten by a renowned team of scholars, Social Work Practice with Groups, Communities, and Organizations focuses on the contemporary theory and practice of social work. Each chapter delves deeply into the key theoretical considerations surrounding a particular practice area, exploring the clinical implications of each. Spanning the full range of both mezzo and macro practice areas, the authors thoroughly look at the assessment of and interventions with group, community, organizational, and institutional settings.The most authoritative book in this field, Social Work Practice with Groups, Communities, and Organizations features: A focus on evidence-based approaches to assessment and intervention for each practice area discussedComprehensive coverage of the most important new and emerging practice technologies in mezzo and macro social workCurrent and emerging demographic, social, political, and economic trends affecting mezzo and macro practiceAn array of pedagogical aids, including Key Terms, Review Questions for Critical Thinking, and Online ResourcesContent closely aligned with social work accreditation standards (EPAS)Providing a solid review of the entire scope of contemporary mezzo and macro social work practice, Social Work Practice with Groups, Communities, and Organizations is both an indispensable educational text for students and a valuable working resource for practitioners who work with groups, communities, and organizations of all sizes.

An essential overview of the core skills needed by every social work practitionerDeveloping Evidence-Based Generalist Practice Skills features contributions from top scholars in social work practice, presenting essential information for the ethical and effective practice of social work. This clearly written guide provides step-by-step guidance for using evidence-based practice to make joint decisions with clients about assessment and treatment options through a careful consideration of the best available research evidence, the client's preferences and values, professional ethical standards, and other key issues.Comprehensive and straightforward, this book addresses foundational practice skills expected of all social work practitioners, including: Evidence-based practiceTrauma-informed practiceInterviewing skillsProblem identification, contracting, and case planningCase managementAdvocacyCrisis interventionPractice evaluationTermination, stabilization, and continuity of careEach chapter begins with an overarching question and "what if" scenarios, and ends with a set of suggested key terms, online resources, and discussion questions. Designed as a foundation-level social work education text for undergraduate and graduate students in social work programs, this book meets the Council on Social Work Education's (CSWE) Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) for a thorough and up-to-date presentation of core social work skills featuring in-depth scholarship.

A lifespan approach presenting evidence-informed interventions for working with individuals and familiesSocial Work Practice with Individuals and Families covers assessment of and intervention with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and families. It offers an array of pedagogical features within each chapter, as well as online resources and review questions at the conclusion of each chapter to help guide critical thinking about topics.Reflecting the current state of evidence-informed social work practice, each chapter's contributors emphasize the incorporation of wider forms of systematically collected data such as case studies, best or promising practices, and consumer-focused data. Reading this book will not only give readers the tools to work effectively with individuals and families, but also develop their skills in evidence informed practice.Comprehensive and insightful, Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families is a student- and practitioner-friendly text identifying the best assessment tools and strategies available for social workers to successfully serve individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges.

A comprehensive overview of domestic and global social welfare policyWritten by a team of renowned social policy experts sharing their unique perspectives on global and U.S. social welfare policy issues, Social Work and Social Policy helps social workers consider key issues that face policymakers, elected officials, and agency administrators in order to develop policies that are both fair and just.Designed as a foundational social welfare policy text, this important book meets the Council on Social Work Education's (CSWE) Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS).Encouraging readers' critical thinking on various issues, each chapter begins with an overarching question and "what if" scenarios, and ends with a set of suggested key terms, online resources, and discussion questions.Recognizing that policy work requires practitioners to be as fully versed as possible with the issue at hand, Social Work and Social Policy thoroughly explores: Social welfare policy as a form of social justiceThe evolution of the American welfare stateHuman security and the welfare of societiesSocial policy from a global perspectiveChallenges for social policies in AsiaWelfare reform and the need for social empathyThe U.S. Patriot Act and its implications for the social work professionHuman rights and emerging social mediaCompelling and broad in scope, Social Work and Social Policy is an indispensable text for students and a valuable resource for practitioners concerned with creating social policy and governmental action guided by justice for all.