Observation has long been recognised as an important and valuable component of social work teaching and learning and is an essential part of social work training programmes. Learning Through Observation in Social Work develops the reader’s understanding and appreciation of observation, its importance and relevance to social work practice and the inherent challenges. The book offers a psychosocial, or psychodynamic, understanding of observation. Beginning with infant and child observation, Megele addresses the developmental aspects of human experience and growth and chapters also cover young adults experiencing mental health and behavioural challenges, people with disabilities, and older adults.

The book is firmly grounded in practice and will develop and enhance the reader’s observational abilities and their capacity for self-awareness, analytical and critical thinking, and critical reflection.

Referring to different settings ranging from home visits, to school, playground, group and social settings, both personal and professional contexts (e.g. self-observation, supervisory observation, observation of qualifying social workers or trainee practice educators), and clinical observations, this book is relevant to all social work students and practitioners who need a greater understanding of this vital part of their daily activity and training.