Case coordination is an important social work activity with roots in the earliest objectives and functions of the profession. This article outlines the theoretical framework of case coordination and describes the tasks, skills, and knowledge essential to it. (Author)

Reviews the development of social work views about the person-environment interface as an evolutionary process. Charges that Fischer's criticism of theory and of pressing for rank empiricism and an emphasis on technique as a basis for practice is a sure way to social work's demise as a knowledge-based profession. (JAC)

Traces changes in social workers' perspectives on the problem of wife abuse. Divides the changes into three time periods: discovering the problem (1976-79); consolidating the perspectives (1980-82); and transforming the problem of wife abuse (1983-84). Concludes increased focus on individual and couple treatment has deflected attention away from…

Reviews elements of the respondent, operant, and modeling theories and various principles of the exchange theory that can be combined to facilitate changes in client behavior. Proposes the behavioral exchange model as a framework to help social workers conceptualize clinical phenomena and thus gain power to influence them. (Author/JAC)

Suggests that effective use of the relationship between worker and client requires defining the concept of relationship more specifically. This may be accomplished through a consideration of the context and purpose of the particular treatment situations, the outcomes desired and the responses that are necessary to achieve these goals. (Author)

Describes frustration theory as useful for generalists in identification and specification of goals, assessment of blocks to goal attainment, problem solving, and formation of action systems. Proposes a theoretical base for understanding client systems, and helps workers to assess their behavior in relation to their professional and personal…

Studies the changes taking place in the way social work is developing and using knowledge for practice. Explores how the profession has moved toward scientifically or empirically based practice. Points out new forms of knowledge already available practitioner. (Author/JAC)