"This should be one of the first books you put in your bag in the morning. Concise yet thorough, with full and accessible explanations, it is set out in a way that readily demonstrates the link between social science and social work. An exceptional, user friendly guide which you will use and re-use as a 'must have' reference text." Martin Sheedy, Senior Lecturer and Social Work Programme Leader, Liverpool John Moores University, UKThis book provides social work students and professionals with core knowledge of the most important concepts in the social sciences. Offering a straightforward guide to diverse and complex disciplines, the book will equip and encourage you to delve further into the way societies function and individuals behave. The book addresses the concepts in social science which are most relevant to social work, among them: Poverty and inequalityMarkets and capitalismSocial classChild developmentThe nature of risk All entries begin with an initial definition then move to a fuller explanation, taking into account the challenges and issues that social workers face in practice. The Social Worker's Guide to the Social Sciences is a must-have text for students and practitioners, enabling them to link their understanding of the social sciences to their professional concerns, priorities, needs and interests.