An accessible and engaging guide to the study of human behavior in the social environment, covering every major theoretical approach

Providing an overview of the major human behavioral theories used to guide social work practice with individuals, families, small groups, and organizations, Human Behavior in the Social Environment examines a different theoretical approach in each chapter—from its historical and conceptual origins to its relevance to social work and clinical applications.

Each chapter draws on a theoretical approach to foster understanding of normative individual human development and the etiology of dysfunctional behavior, as well as to provide guidance in the application of social work intervention.

Edited by a team of scholars, Human Behavior in the Social Environment addresses the Council on Social Work Education's required competencies for accreditation (EPAS) and explores:



Respondent Learning theory
Operant Learning theory
Cognitive-Behavioral theory
Attachment theory
Psychosocial theory
Person-Centered theory
Genetic theory
Ecosystems theory
Small Group theory
Family Systems theory
Organizational theory