Clinical Sociology

Clinical sociology is an action-oriented field that seeks to prevent, reduce, or resolve the seemingly overwhelming number of social problems confronting modern society. In an extensive revision of the first edition of this classic text and reference, published by Plenum in 1990, the editors have assembled a distinguished roster of contributors to address such topics as theory and practice; intervention at various levels of social organization; specific kinds of sociological practice; social problems; and the process of becoming a clinical sociologist.

This lucidly written textbook covers the historical background of clinical sociology as a field and its developing trends around the world. It addresses the urgent need for sociologists to develop a clinical approach in their effort to improve society, with the emphasis that clinical sociology should complement the work of other disciplines such as clinical psychology, social work, and social anthropology. This book discusses in depth the concept of clinical sociology itself and the obligations of clinical sociologists. It fills a gap in the literature which reveals a lack of discussion and consensus on the roles and responsibilities of clinical sociologists, therefore making an important contribution to clinical sociology, and sociology, more broadly. Graduate students, practitioners and professionals in the field of clinical sociology, social work and other related disciplines will find this book very useful.

Clinical sociology is a multidisciplinary field that seeks to improve life situations for individuals and groups. This book showcases the art and science of clinical sociology from around the world. It is the first book to present basic clinical sociology diagrams and models in addition to detailed histories of clinical sociology in the United States, Quebec, France, and Japan. A range of interventions are discussed in light of a region’s economic, social, political, and disciplinary history. The book presents illustrative case studies from leaders in the field, and it serves the need of graduate-level courses from around the world.

Community Intervention: Clinical Sociology Perspectives showcases important efforts to improve the quality of life in communities around the world. The book, a project of the clinical sociology division of the International Sociological Association, describes the interdisciplinary field of clinical sociology in relation to community improvement. The first part of the book covers important concepts and tools for community intervention and identifies a variety of approaches to community research with an emphasis on research that centrally involves community members. The chapters in the second part of the volume focus on projects in a broad range of countries, covering topics such as involving residents in urban renewal projects, developing healthy communities, encouraging socioeconomic development, improving the life of immigrants, helping communities deal with climate change, establishing human rights cities, encouraging empowerment and creating an inclusive community. A unique feature of the book is the inclusion of profiles about some of the outstanding work in community intervention over the last 100 years. These profiles are of Nobel Peace Prize winner Jane Addams; community activist Saul Alinsky; human rights and environmental activist Wangari Maathai and participatory action research pioneer Orlando Fals Borda. Written by scholar-practitioners as well as analysts, the book provides essential commentary regarding community intervention efforts.

This title provides a systematic and accessible introduction to medical sociology, beginning each 1500 word entry with a definition of the concept, then examines its origins, development, strengths and weaknesses, offering further reading guidance for independent learning, and drawing on international literature and examples.

I The Reemerging Field of Clinical Sociology.- 1. Clinical Sociology: Defining the Field.- Toward a Definition.- Distinctiveness of the Sociological Approach.- The Sociological Perspective.- Theory.- Sociological Methods.- Roles for Clinical Sociologists.- Organizational Consultant/Organizational Development.- Social Impact Assessment.- Community Organization.- Mediation/Conflict Resolution.- Program Development/Program Evaluation.- Counselor/Sociotherapy.- Trainer/Teacher.- Broker.- Advocate.- Group Facilitator.- Conclusion.- References.- 2. The Emergence of American Clinical Sociology.- The.

This is the first volume to explore clinical and applied sociology in Aotearoa New Zealand, while also providing unique insights into the practice of sociology internationally. Drawing out the intersections between sociological research, public sociology and applied sociology, the chapters in this volume enrich the rapidly growing field of international clinical sociology. Aotearoa New Zealand presents an important case study in the development and practice of sociology: with a vibrant social scientific community and a significant diversity of scholars and practitioners, local research and practice highlight the country’s innovative and often unusual approaches to addressing social problems. This volume brings together a diversity of scholars and practitioners, from the country’s top sociologists to early career researchers, and provides a comprehensive and valuable exploration of sociology and its many practical applications in this unique context. It covers a wide range of key topics in the field, from the challenges of practicing a public sociology in Aotearoa New Zealand to the role of applied and clinical sociologists in government and consultancies. Contemporary social issues are explored as case studies, including practising sociological psychotherapy; indigenous applications of sociology and Māori language learning; and applying sociology within healthcare. This is a key addition to applied and clinical sociology literature.