This significant and distinctive text demonstrates the relationship between social work and sociological theory. It provides students with a strong knowledge base to support the development of critical social work practice. By integrating both theory and practice to cover a wide range of sociological material, the text: a- Demonstrates how different sociological theories can inform social work practice with different service user groups a- Addresses the complex sociological debate around globalisation and post-modernism and their social work implications a- Compares social work on both national and international levels, incorporating a wealth of international practice examples a- Offers both Eastern and Western perspectives on global trends affecting both sociology and social work Each chapter defines and explains the complex jargon associated with sociology and then illustrates their relevance to social work practice. Adopting a step-by-step approach, Oak provides social work students with the conceptual tools necessary for competent practice.