Elgar Handbooks on Social Work – Serie

This insightful Handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the unique and varied methods of social work research, drawing on examples of research projects undertaken in a variety of countries, cultures and social work settings.International in scope, the Handbook outlines the foundational concepts and ethical constructs of social work research methods before analysing them through a variety of theoretical lenses, including feminism, queer theory, social justice and radicalism. It assesses effective methods and methodologies in practice, examining quantitative, mixed methods, documentary and active participatory approaches. Contributing authors consider social work research in complex situations and discuss the compound ethical challenges facing such projects, proposing key areas for development in this field such as the use of critical reflection, greater understanding of the ever-present power imbalance, and the social worker as a practical researcher. The Handbook of Research Methods in Social Work is a vital resource for students and academics specialising in qualitative and quantitative research methods in social work, sociology and social policy. Its assessment of real-life social work projects makes it an invaluable reference for professionals and policymakers operating in the social work setting.

This comprehensive Research Handbook explores how the social work and social values of social justice, equality and human rights underpin leadership in the sector and beyond. Whilst this is a strength of the sector, realising such values raises a series of tensions and complexities within the contemporary context of social work and social care.Bringing together over 60 renowned experts from Europe, North America and Australia, the Research Handbook provides key insights into the distinct aspects of leadership within social work and care. It examines how leadership can be strengthened at the professional, organizational and system levels and what enables equity and inclusion to be demonstrated within policy and practice. Chapters delve into leadership within different contexts, including public and community organisations, collaboration with other sectors, and the opportunity and challenge of new technologies. Several focus on the experiences of those who are often marginalised from leadership opportunities on the basis of indigeneity, race, gender and sexuality or having their own lived experience of social work and social care services. The Handbook concludes with recommendations of how leadership can be developed, supported and practiced to better reflect the underpinning values of the sector and inspire more human-centred practice.This Research Handbook is an essential tool for students and academics in social work, social care and organisational leadership. Professional leaders within social work and social care organizations will also benefit from its practical insights and up-to-date research.