"Remains an authoritative overview of the field, but is now markedly more accessible. It will be invaluable to students and scholars looking for a sustained and engaging inquiry into the premises and practices of social constructionism." (Dr Matthew Adams, University of Brighton). "Kenneth Gergen elegantly presents his constructionist ideas in a style that is both relational and inviting, and, at the same time, comprehensive and thorough. By tracing the history of his ideas, he provides a blueprint for others to follow by including further reflections and additional references. Dr Gergen once again has paved the way for innovative, relational, and ethical ways of thinking about pedagogy, research and practice. I strongly recommend this outstanding book for child and youth care practitioners, social workers, counselors, mediators and psychologists." (Marie Hoskins, Professor, School of Child and Youth Care, Faculty of Human and Social Development, University of Victoria). "This aptly titled book provides an accessible theoretical introduction to social constructionism applicable to numerous fields: therapy, education, research. As a teacher of Family Therapy, this book provides a foundation for understanding social constructionist therapy models and research and adds depth to my students understanding of these models." (Kevin Lyness, Antioch University). Reflecting the significant developments in constructivist thought and practice, the Second Edition of An Invitation to Social Construction has been thoroughly revised and updated with material on major new areas such as discourse analysis, action research, the body and environmentalism. While still preserving the celebrated wide-ranging and profound approach of the first, the Second Edition, now with pedagogical features throughout, is even more accessible for students.

Table of Contents

Social Construction Revolution in the Making Constructing the Real and the Good Horizons of Human Inquiry The Relational Self Dialogue Conflict and Transformation A Profusion of Practices Social Construction in Question

Author Biography

Kenneth J. Gergen is a Senior Research Professor at Swarthmore College, USA, and President of the Taos Institute. He has been the recipient of many awards throughout the world. His major works include Realities and Relationships: Soundings in Social Construction; The Saturated Self: Dilemmas of Identity in Contemporary Life; and Relational Being: Beyond Self and Community.