Includes bibliographical references (pages 86-91) and index.

An introduction to the theories of observation / Nicky Ryden and Steve O'Loughlin -- Approaches to observation practice / Nicky Ryden -- Practical techniques for the observation of service users / Nicky Ryden with Maureen O'Loughlin -- Observation with disabled children and adults with learning disabilities / Jackie Hughes and Bronwyn Roberts -- Using observation in training and development / Nicky Ryden -- Groups and observations / Steve O'Loughlin.

Introducing the concept of observation to social work students can be a complex and challenging task. Assessing their observation skills and assignments can be even harder, especially if much of this work takes place implicitly, throughout their training and placements. This book will help students to grasp the fundamentals of social work observation, from the theories and methods to how these can be demonstrated in everyday practice. Skills are covered throughout, as well as effective observation work with different client groups and in different settings. The authors argue that an observant social worker is an effective and resilient one, and demonstrate this through case study material and research summaries.