`Karen Healy has written a very interesting and worthwhile book that explores the relevance and significance of postmodern theory to social work. It provides a well-argued account of recent developments in social work theory... However, it is not simply an account of theory, as considerable effort goes into making links between the theory and its implications for practice. ... [I]t offers a sound foundation for exploring issues of theory and practice.
A major strength of the book is that it shows that some of the significant flaws in earlier attempts to develop critical approaches to practice should not lead us to assume that radical approaches are necessarily oppressive in themselves, or doomed to failure...
How should social workers be responding to the crises, which beset the welfare states of the 21st century? Could postmodern theory provide some of the answers?
This original and stimulating book provides a critical review of contemporary social work theory and considers its relevance for professional practice. Karen Healy outlines critical theoretical perspectives - including feminist, Marxist and radical social work - and indicates their implications for social work practice. She explains contemporary debates on post-structuralism and postmodernism and shows how their application to everyday social work practice would point to a new pragmatism focused on local, contextual and incremental proposals for change. By referring to actual examples, she invites the reader to consider the potential for relevant and diverse forms of social work practice informed by postmodern theory.
This accessible and engaging book makes an important contribution to contemporary debates on social work theory and practice. It will be important reading for students and academics in social work and social policy.
