Social theoretical concepts are at the very heart of social work, providing frameworks to connect wider political and social processes with individual development and sense of selfhood. This textbook outlines how these ideas can be used to provide insight into a wide-range of issues and challenges in social work practice. "This wonderfully clearly written book shows professiomal and trainee social workers how they can greatly improve their practice by becoming practical sociologists. It also demonstrates to sociologists how their ideas can inspire concrete activities that are socially beneficial and positively transformative" - David Inglis, University of Helsinki. "A rich meditation on the intersection between social theory and social work. Christopher Thorpe's excellent contribution brings into focus the importance of ideas and concepts for social work. Wonderful to see the inclusion of Norbert Elias who reflects on the emergence of new forms of 'civilized' life mirrored by much of social work's front-line engineering." -Stephen A. Webb, Glasgow Caledonian University. "Social Theory for Social Work by Chris Thorpe provides a very good foundation for sociological social work approaches to professional practice that many of us have been advocating. It covers crucial sociological perspectives from Durkheim to Bourdieu and applies them to social work, using a critical reflective stance. Moreover, its approach to theory is one that students and practitioners can easily follow." - Lena Dominelli, Co-Director, Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience, Durham University.