The importance of 'evidence based practice' in health and social work has been emphasised by recent policy and legislative initiatives, but how do professionals decide which research findings are valuable and relevant to them? This accessible introduction provides social work students and practitioners with the knowledge they need both to evaluate research and to apply it to their own practice. Exploring the range of research methodologies used in health and social care, from randomised control trials to surveys, interviews, experimental designs and ethnographic approaches, Michael Sheppard...

Sheppard presents a comparative analysis of the work of mental health social workers and community psychiatric nurses. Both professions lay claim, to a considerable degree, to the same territory, and, in view of developments in community care, the examination of the relative merits of the claims of these professions to this territory is important. The analysis described in the book involved not only the comparison of two professions, but also a detailed examination of the theoretical foundations of both professions and an empirically researched examination of practice. The findings...

Social exclusion is a subject of major importance in contemporary social work and has been a core feature of social policy developments in the UK and Europe in the past decade. Michael Sheppard argues that the issue of social exclusion lies at the very heart of social work and he examines the implications of this position for both theory and practice. He goes on to examine a range of key topics in social work including: Social work values and knowledge Empowerment Need The exercise of authority Authority and Choice Evidence-based practice Reflection and reflective learning ...

Each major religion has developed moral codes covering issues of sexuality, morality, ethics etc. These moral codes seek to regulate the situations which can give rise to sexual interest and to influence people's sexual activities and practices. Explore this fascinating and relevant subject with Sarah Tillman and Michael Sheppard. This huge comprehensive collection includes information and analysis on Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Neopaganism and many other religious belief systems. Sexual practices, beliefs, morals, views, rituals, & more are discussed within the context...