Brad Sheafor, professor emeritus of the School of Social Work at Colorado State University, has recently had the 10th edition of his popular textbook Techniques and Guidelines for Social Work Practice published by Pearson Education, with Charles R. Horejsi as co-author.
The book provides context for those aspiring to a career in social work, as well as useful guidelines and fundamental techniques for working with vulnerable populations. With a focus on the generalist perspective, the text provides up-to-date information on best practices in social work.
Sheafor says more than an academic textbook, the publication serves as a handbook for practitioners. Many find it continues to be useful after they graduate and start working in the field.
“Many people are influenced, directly and indirectly, by the decisions and actions of social workers” write Sheafor and Horejsi in the preface to the book. “Improving the quality of life for an individual, family, or the people of a community ultimately impacts society as a whole and elevates the health, happiness, safety and productivity of all its members.”
“This book is about what social workers actually do when helping their clients solve problems and/or enhance social functioning,” said Sheafor. “It describes 154 techniques and guidelines that social workers use in everyday practice.”
Sheafor also recalls a letter from a nun who taught from the book at a university in upper New York. She wrote: “Wanted to let you know that I’ve been transferred to a university in rural Alaska. So far I’ve packed my Bible and my copy of Techniques and Guidelines for Social Work Practice.”
Sheafor retired in 2012 after 38 years of service at Colorado State University. He was a major player in the progression of social work at CSU from a bachelor’s program within the Department of Sociology to becoming its own school and offering a master’s in social work and Ph.D. programs.
For the dedication of the 10th edition, Sheafor and Horejsi write, “To the next generation of social workers, who have chosen to devote their time and talents to the service of others and the struggle for social justice.”
