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Human Behavior Theory for Social Work Practice
Second Edition
- Terry Koenig - University of Kansas, USA
- John Thompson - Dordt University, USA
- Rick Spano - University of Kansas, USA
Other Titles in:
Social Work & Social Policy (General)
Social Work & Social Policy (General)
January 2026 | 536 pages | SAGE Publications, Inc
Human Behavior Theory for Social Work Practice offers an in-depth exploration of human behavior theory and helps students connect each theory to social work practice. Instead of following the traditional lifespan approach, the book introduces key theories and shows how they apply to case examples across different life stages. With insights from years in social work practice, Terry Koenig, John Thompson, and Rick Spano share case examples that encourage students to engage deeply with ideas and respond to challenges with clarity and care. The new Second Edition addresses all three levels of practice, with a strong emphasis on neuroscience, ethics, and provides a comprehensive foundation into the history of the profession, equipping students to think critically, act ethically, and grow into reflective practitioners.
Preface
About the Authors
Acknowledgments
Chapter 1: Introduction to Theory and Its Application to Social Work Practice
Chapter 2: Critique of Theory for Use in Social Work Practice
Chapter 3: Contextualizing Human Behavior Theory
Chapter 4: Critical Theories
Chapter 5: Psychodynamic Theory
Chapter 6: Systems Theories
Chapter 7: Environmental and Ecological Theory in Social Work
Chapter 8: Life Span Theories, Family Life Course Perspectives, and Historical Trauma
Chapter 9: Symbolic Interactionism
Chapter 10: Behavior Theory, the Cognitive Turn, and the Influence of Mindfulness
Chapter 11: Theories of Culture and White Privilege
Chapter 12: Empowerment Theory and the Strengths Perspective
Chapter 13: Cognitive and Moral Development Theories
Glossary
References
Supplements
Human Behavior Theory for Social Work Practice provides a generalist perspective to informed practice behaviors for the social work profession. This text allows learners to think critically about social work theory, develop a broad expansion on theory terms, and understand theory in the context of intervention.
Jackson State University School of Social Work
Best textbook on human behavior theory that is contemporary and consistent with current CSWE EPAS. It does not read like a chore and is engaging. It also includes the natural environment, often overlooked in Social Work practice.
Southern Illinois University