Relational Theory in Social Work

The Relational Theory of Social Work: Phenomenological Foundations presents readers with a clear theoretical and methodological conceptualization of helping practices through the lens of one of the most prominent paradigmatical developments in social work-the Relational Method. It provides readers with guidelines at policy, management, and fieldwork levels, which can be applied across all areas of professional social work.


The text treats social problems not as pathologies that need to be cured, but as complex events that require awareness and the participation of a community of actors to be addressed effectively. Readers learn about the nuances of collective agency and "coping networks," the tapestry of social relations that interweave in shared caring action. The book explores how social workers can catalyze and structure these networks to enable people to cope with life's complexities, from technical problems that can be solved with specific techniques to more complex life situations that demand a complete reorganization of one's lifestyle.


The Relational Theory of Social Work is an ideal resource for upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses in social work and community development. Its focus on reflective practice and phenomenological aspect of social action, and it provides readers with an insightful and innovative exploration of social problems and how to address them.