Effective Communication

Communication is at the heart of all work with people and their problems.
Whatever the setting, poor communication can prove very damaging in
its consequences. However, at its most effective, it has the power to
ensure the promotion of equality and well-being.

This new edition of an essential text offers a clear and informative
introduction to the subtleties and practical complexities of
communication. Drawing on a wide-ranging theory base from across
the social sciences, it demonstrates how key ideas from a number of
disciplines provide a sound foundation for informed and sensitive
practice. This edition includes:

■ A consistent focus on the importance of communication within
interprofessional and multidisciplinary contexts;
■ New chapters on communication within specific settings, such as
working with children and with groups;
■ New discussion of potential difficulties in communication – for
example, as a result of disability issues or the challenges of intercultural
communication;
■ A broad range of learning resources, such as activities, 'points to
ponder' and 'voice of experience' comments, reflecting practitioners'
real-world experience.

With its clear practice focus and emphasis on reflection throughout,
Effective Communication is a key text for everyone across the people
professions. It is an ideal introduction for students and practitioners of
social work, nursing,health and social care, counselling and pastoral care,
teaching and educational support, probation work, youth and community work,
and advice studies, as well as managers, leaders, supervisors and human
resource professionals.