An Introduction to Group Work Practice, 8th Edition (PDF eBook)

For Courses in Group Social Work Practice

This widely used textbook offers a comprehensive, organized overview of group work practice from a generalist social work perspective. It is essential reading for students, educators, and professionals in undergraduate and graduate social work programs across the United States and globally.

The 8th Edition of An Introduction to Group Work Practice continues to provide a thorough introduction to group work practice, exploring both task and treatment groups across the micro, meso, and macro levels. Fully updated, the new edition includes key advancements in the field, such as research on virtual groups, deeper content on practice with treatment and task groups, and the latest literature on working with reluctant or resistant group members.

Additional updates include expanded sections on strategies for engaging individuals who struggle to participate in group work, revised material on leadership and diversity, and a wealth of new content derived from evidence-based practice sources. This edition also features an updated reference list to keep pace with the latest research and practical applications in social work.

About the Authors:

Ronald W. Toseland

Dr. Ronald W. Toseland is the Director and Professor at the Institute of Gerontology, School of Social Welfare, University at Albany, State University of New York. With a rich academic background, he holds an MSW from Fordham University and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Toseland is a prominent expert in group work practice, with a particular focus on aging individuals and their family caregivers. He has authored six books and over 110 articles and chapters, contributing extensively to the field of social work. He has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Association for Gerontology Education in Social Work Career Achievement Award (2007), and was inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare in 2010.

Robert F. Rivas

Dr. Robert F. Rivas is a Professor of Social Work at Siena College in Albany, NY, and a well-respected figure in the field. He holds a BA from New Mexico Highlands University and an MSW from Arizona State University. His research and practice focus on group work with children, families, and Native American communities. Dr. Rivas has contributed to social work education through extensive work in curriculum development and accreditation services. In recognition of his contributions, he received the BPD Presidential Medal of Honor in 2008.