Working with People with Learning Disabilities: Theory and Practice

by Honor Woods, David Thomas

Overview

A comprehensive introduction to working with people with learning disabilities, this guide provides the theoretical understanding needed to inform good practice and to help improve the quality of life of people within this group. Using accessible language and case examples, the authors discuss both psychological and practical theories, including:

* person-centred and behavioural approaches

* anti-discriminatory and anti-oppressive approaches

* systems theory

* task centred approach

* role theory.

Emphasising empowerment and inclusion of those with learning disabilities, they relate theory to issues such as loss and bereavement, sexuality and social stigma. They also provide guidance for practitioners on social policy and legislation and explore crisis intervention, values and ethics, advocacy and joint agency work, making this an extremely useful resource for social workers, nurses, teachers care workers and others working with people with learning disabilities.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781846423918
Publisher:	Kingsley, Jessica Publishers
Publication date:	02/20/2003
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	288
File size:	532 KB

About the Author

David Thomas is a qualified social worker and accredited practice teacher experienced in working with people with learning disabilities and/or mental health needs within the voluntary, statutory and health sectors. Honor Woods is a qualified social worker with over eighteen years' experience within adult services and, in particular, with people with learning disabilities. She is an accredited practice teacher.
Honor Woods is a qualified social worker with over eighteen years' experience and is an accredited practice teacher.

Table of Contents

Introduction. 1. What is a learning disability? 2. Application of theory. 3. Anti discriminatory practice and anti oppressive practice. 4. What is normalization? 5. Communication methods. 6. Advocacy, empowerment, participation and choice. 7. Universal experiences in the lives of people with learning disabilities. 8. Values, ethics and contrasting approaches. 9. Practical theories and methods. 10. Society's influence on practice. 11. The way forward. References. Index.

Editorial Reviews

This book is written in clear and understandable language, examples from practice, illustrating the theory are of additional help

Wspolne Tematy

The style is user friendly, with many telling vignettes to illustrate practical points of intervention and support. Valuable to students and those practising in the field who wish to update their approaches to the people and families with whom they work.

British Journal of Developmental Disabilities

Readers of this Journal will find the book of value in helping them to understand the social model of care and gain a sound awareness of the strategies, potential dilemmas and barriers to effective practice.

Young People and Families Children

This is a straightforward and accessible text and an invaluable resource to people with limited experience of working with adults with learning disability. It would also be beneficial as a reference book for experienced occupational therapists who wish to improve their knowledge on different learning disability theories.

British Journal of Occupational Therapy