Economics for Social Workers

Economics for Social Workers: The Application of Economic Theory to Social Policy and the Human Services is designed to provide a working knowledge of economics with clarity and attention to the concerns of the social work profession. This primer for social work students introduces the general definitions and concepts of economic theory and uses case studies in social work to develop applied understanding. The case studies include stories of job training, substance abuse centers, counseling, therapy, child protective services, and services for the poor. The concluding chapters are devoted to topics directly related to social work: economics of poverty, health economics, household economics, the economics of labor, and government fiscal policy. The dominance of economics in social policy debates means that advocates of policies must demonstrate at least a basic understanding of the economic aspects of their proposals if they want to be considered credible participants. Economics for Social Workers is a unique resource that effectively meets this need.

This primer for social work students introduces the general definitions and concepts of economics and uses case studies in social work to develop applied knowledge. The case studies include stories of job training, substance abuse centres, counselling, therapy and child protection services.

The Economic PerspectiveMarginal AnalysisPerfect Competition and the Supply and Demand ModelImperfect CompetitionMarket Failure and Government InterventionCost-Benefit and Cost-Effectiveness AnalysisGovernment FailureThe Economics of LaborThe Economics of PovertyHealth EconomicsEconomic Demography