Tom Douglas – författare

A Theory of Groupwork Practice is based on the results of the search for the fundamental similarities in the practice of all groupworkers in whatever profession or setting they may operate. The theoretical concepts used by groupworkers may be widely variant, but what workers actually do when in interaction with the groups they create or adapt shows remarkable similarities which are deeper and more influential than the concepts in promoting or preventing successful group outcomes. This book presents the foundations of a coherent theory of group work practice based on these similarities.

In his latest book, Tom Douglas turns his attention to the skills of group membership. While there is an extensive literature on basic groupwork practice, none of the existing books address the functions of groups exclusively from the viewpoint of members.Survival in Groups examines the influences and pressures which can exist in groups and explains what to look for in order to see these factors at work. It stresses the fact that the ability to see the processes of a group in action can enable group members to make consciously directed contributions to the group based on an understanding of what is involved. The final chapters discuss methods of integrating personal learning about group outcomes.Illustrated throughout with practice-based examples, Survival in Groups is aimed at the many students of social work, counselling, nursing and social care who are required to participate in groups, but who are unclear about what this involves. With its summaries, lists of basic concepts and brief annotated bibliography, the book will also be of use to busy professionals in the social care field where teamwork or groupwork is emphasised.

Scapegoats are a universal phenomenon, appearing in all societies at all times in groups large and small, in public and private organizations. Hardly a week passes without some media reference to someone or something being made a scapegoat. Tom Douglas examines the process of scapegoating from the perspectives of victims and perpetrators, tracing its development from earliest times as rite of atonement to the modern forms of the avoidance of blame and the victimisation of innocents. The differences and similarities between the ancient and modern forms are examined to reveal that despite the modern logical explanations of behaviour, the mystical element in the form of superstition is still evident. Directly responding to the Diploma in Social Work's call for texts on anti-discriminatory practice Scapegoats should become essential reading for all social workers in training and practice. Will also be a invaluable resource for all professionals engaging in groupwork and group workers in training.

Scapegoats are a universal phenomenon, appearing in all societies at all times in groups large and small, in public and private organizations. Hardly a week passes without some media reference to someone or something being made a scapegoat. Tom Douglas examines the process of scapegoating from the perspectives of victims and perpetrators, tracing its development from earliest times as rite of atonement to the modern forms of the avoidance of blame and the victimisation of innocents. The differences and similarities between the ancient and modern forms are examined to reveal that despite the modern logical explanations of behaviour, the mystical element in the form of superstition is still evident. Directly responding to the Diploma in Social Work's call for texts on anti-discriminatory practice Scapegoats should become essential reading for all social workers in training and practice. Will also be a invaluable resource for all professionals engaging in groupwork and group workers in training.

Basic Groupwork is a simple, practical guide to the processes of groupwork. This new edition has been extensively updated and revised to reflect the changes which have taken place in society and social behaviour since it was first published in 1978, but in essence it remains an accessible and friendly text for the novice practitioner.In logical sequence the book follows the progress of one group from inception to close and exposes how groups work. Basic group processes explained include:how individuals bring their personal habitual responses to situations into a grouphow group constraints enhance or restrain group behaviour and achievementhow a group is affected by the way in which it has originated how leadership and membership roles interact.Basic Groupwork provides students with a sound and solid basis for any kind of groupwork, in any context.

Basic Groupwork is a simple, practical guide to the processes of groupwork. This new edition has been extensively updated and revised to reflect the changes which have taken place in society and social behaviour since it was first published in 1978, but in essence it remains an accessible and friendly text for the novice practitioner.In logical sequence the book follows the progress of one group from inception to close and exposes how groups work. Basic group processes explained include:how individuals bring their personal habitual responses to situations into a grouphow group constraints enhance or restrain group behaviour and achievementhow a group is affected by the way in which it has originated how leadership and membership roles interact.Basic Groupwork provides students with a sound and solid basis for any kind of groupwork, in any context.