Human Behavior Theory: A Diversity Framework

As American society becomes increasingly diverse, social workers must use a variety of human behavior frameworks to understand their clients' culturally complex concerns. This text applies specific human behavior theories to diversity practice. They show how human behavior theory can be employed in interventions in the life problems of diverse client populations at the individual, group, social network, and societal levels.

Several groups are examined. They include: minority groups
ethnic groups
women
older adults
members of certain social classes affected by economic and educational (dis)advantage, especially those living in poverty
people with developmental disabilities, people of varying sexual and gender orientations, and religious groups.

Case studies that illustrate social work practice in the area are highlighted. The case studies include Social Work Practice within a Diversity Framework
The Social Work Interview
Symbolic Interactionism: Social Work Assessment, Meaning, and Language
Erikson's Eight Stages of Development
Role Theory and Social Work Practice
A Constructionist Approach
Risk, Resilience and Resettlement
Addressing Diverse Family Forms
Small Group Theory
Natural Social Networks
Power Factors in Social Work Practice. This volume will be a fundament resource for practitioners and an essential tool for training.