How do you decide which theory or theories to use?

Learning Objectives

After considering this resource, you should be aware of some different approaches to selecting a theory or theories and the potential difficulties they could raise.

The application of theory to practice is always an interesting debate. Professor Malcolm Payne here discusses two possible ways of selecting theory: the eclectic approach or the selective approach and offers advice on how to tackle the difficulties that are involved in each.

Download: Video transcript

Reflective Questions

  1. Which approach do you take to integrating theory and practice? Are you eclectic or selective?
  2. How can you ensure that the theory you use is appropriate to your clientele?
  3. How do broader theories (e.g. feminist theory, anti-discrimination theory, structural theory) impact upon specific theories of practice in social work?
  4. Can you think of certain theories that would not work well together?
Expert opinions