Open University books

How do we understand mental health problems in their social context? A former BMA Medical Book of the Year award winner, this book (read more)

How do we understand mental health problems in their social context? A former BMA Medical Book of the Year award winner, this book provides a sociological analysis of major areas of mental health and illness. The book considers contemporary and historical aspects of sociology, social psychiatry, policy and therapeutic law to help students develop an in-depth and critical approach to this complex subject. New developments for the fifth edition include: brand new chapter on prisons, criminal justice and mental health; expanded coverage of stigma, class and social networks; and updated material on the Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act and the Deprivation of Liberty.

A classic in its field, this well established textbook offers a rich and well-crafted overview of mental health and illness unrivalled by competitors and is essential reading for students and professionals studying a range of medical sociology and health-related courses. It is also highly suitable for trainee mental health workers in the fields of social work, nursing, clinical psychology and psychiatry. "Rogers and Pilgrim go from strength to strength!This fifth edition of their classic text is not only a sociology but also a psychology, a philosophy, a history and a polity.
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"Abnormal and Clinical Psychology provided an invaluable orientation to the grounding theoretical principles of clinical health psychology, (read more)

"Abnormal and Clinical Psychology provided an invaluable orientation to the grounding theoretical principles of clinical health psychology, how this knowledge can be applied by psychologists in healthcare settings, particular assessment and intervention approaches and issues associated with working with patients in healthcare settings ...I would highly recommend this as a key text for clinical psychology trainees and postgraduates working or researching in medical settings across the lifespan, both as a general orientation tool and a resource to refer to with reference to specific presenting issues. Fleur-Michelle Coiffait, Doctoral student, University of Edinburgh, UK "The tone of this volume is well pitched; it is written in clear English yet without being over-simplified. New vocabulary is collated into 'key terms' boxes for easy reference at the end of the chapter - a useful device for the new student.

Also proffered at chapter end are 'For Discussion' boxes, encouraging the reader to critically assess and compare the contents of the chapter, along with useful suggestions for further reading. With a good level of detail without swamping the reader, this volume is an excellent introduction to students of abnormal psychology." Hayley Burgess, Psychology Graduate Extensively updated, this popular textbook includes the latest research and therapeutic approaches, including third wave cognitive behavioural therapies, as well as developments in clinical practice. The book introduces and evaluates the conceptual models of mental health problems and their treatment, and provides valuable analyses of various disorders, such as schizophrenia and paedophilia. (hide)

The text is a comprehensive guide to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The introductory chapter (read more)

The text is a comprehensive guide to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The introductory chapter covers the similarities and differences between a theory and a method, as well as psychosocial theories and concepts. Each subsequent chapter then explores in detail how to implement theories and methods, their strengths and limitations, alongside case examples, critical thinking questions and suggested further resources.

Key features:* Illustrative case studies * Exercises* Case examples* Critical thinking questions* Further readings/resources * Revised content, including the addition of genograms and ecomapsThis is a practical and essential guide for all social work students, practitioners, and practice educators who are working with students in field placements. The book is an updated third edition to a successful and established series. "The clarity with which Teater describes complex concepts for social workers is refreshing. (hide)

This book draws on the seminal Learning without Limits project which researched learning environments free from the damaging effects (read more)

This book draws on the seminal Learning without Limits project which researched learning environments free from the damaging effects of fixed ability labelling, thinking and practices (Hart et al 2004). Alongside the notion of 'transformability' that permeates Learning without Limits, the assumption that intelligence is fixed is at last also being robustly challenged and the door is ajar within English primary schools to consider alternatives to the existing practice of ability grouping and labelling of children by numbers and grades. This book builds on Creating Learning without Limits (Swann et al, 2012) which tells the story of how one primary school community, led by Alison Peacock, worked to build a learning environment that was inclusive and enabling for everyone.
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This 2nd edition is the ideal resource for paramedics and student paramedics looking for a quick reference guide to help develop (read more)

This 2nd edition is the ideal resource for paramedics and student paramedics looking for a quick reference guide to help develop or refresh their assessment skills with up to date knowledge. This handy pocket sized book can be used by students for exam revision, by paramedics and emergency care staff en route to a call, or clinicians who are working in other clinical environments, such as urgent care centres to revisit key points and further refine their skills. Divided into body systems, the book takes the reader through the considerations and actions required for each type of emergency presentation.

The book also: * Takes an approach that mirrors current UK and international practice * Features a cardiovascular chapter which includes sepsis, red flag sepsis and The UK Sepsis Trust Pre-hospital Sepsis Screening and Action Tool * Uses red flags to highlight where immediate action may be needed and identifies appropriate actions to be taken * Has been updated where applicable against the current Ambulance Clinical Guidelines, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Guidelines * Considers the social, ethical and legal factors that might impact on care * I (hide)

"This is an important and welcome book. Readers can see the faults of simplistic judgments, neglect of evidence, dismissal of researchers, (read more)

"This is an important and welcome book. Readers can see the faults of simplistic judgments, neglect of evidence, dismissal of researchers, and injudicious implementation." (From the foreword by Paul Black). We all know that small classes are better than large classes; that children are best taught in groups according to their ability; that some schools are much better than others and that we should teach children according to their individual learning styles ...or do we? This book asks awkward questions about these and many other sacred cows of education.

Each chapter tackles a persistent myth in education, confronting it with research evidence and teasing out any kernel of truth which may underlie the myth. Leading authors from the world of education each bring analysis and expertise to bear on their chosen subject, presenting their argument in an accessible manner based on sound scholarship. Some of the conclusions drawn in Bad Education are likely to be real eye-openers for many teachers and parents, who will find some of their basic assumptions about education called into question. (hide)

Becoming a Teacher provides a broad context for understanding education, addressing issues such as the influence of international (read more)

Becoming a Teacher provides a broad context for understanding education, addressing issues such as the influence of international policy and practice, education ideology and social justice. This is balanced with practical advice for the classroom on topics such as assessment for learning, learning technologies, literacy, numeracy and English as an additional language. Becoming a Teacher draws extensively on contemporary research and empirical evidence to support critical reflection about learning and teaching. (hide)

"This text stands out in the field [due to] its comprehensiveness. While it makes a conventional bow to the necessity for up-to-date (read more)

"This text stands out in the field [due to] its comprehensiveness. While it makes a conventional bow to the necessity for up-to-date research and evidence-based practice, it is unusual in its insistence that to be fully understood these issues must also be seen in both a historic and a cross-cultural perspective. This updated edition should prove invaluable to students, academics, policy makers and professionals across many jurisdictions." Helen Buckley, Associate Professor and Co-ordinator, Postgraduate Diploma in Child Protection and Welfare, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland "There are many valuable Child Abuse or Child Protection texts available on the market, however very few successful provide a comprehensive resource to support both.

Not only does this book provide an excellent insight into the subject of Child Abuse, but it also explores the current difficulties within Safeguarding Children and Child Protection practice, with clear explanation of legislative changes and the modern challenges faced." Amy Dopson, Child Branch Leader Professional Preparation Nursing, University of Surrey, UK "This is a timely and much welcome new edition of Brian Corby's highly respected work. It retains the excellent historical focus of the previous editions, but has been substantially updated to take account of the debates about the reform and reprofessionalistion of social work in the wake of the death of (Baby) Peter Connelly." Sue White, Professor of Social Work, University of Birmingham, UK "This core text surveys the global landscape, recognising that cultural contexts shape definitions of and responses to child abuse and neglect ...The revised edition takes account of new directions in policy and practice in the aftermath of the Munro review in England, notably the need for systemic and therapeutic approaches to practice." Caroline Humphrey, Senior Lecturer in Social Work, University of Hull, UK This best-selling text has been used by countless students, practitioners and researchers as a key reference on child protection issues. The book demystifies this complex and emotionally-charged area, outlining research, history, social policy and legislation, as well as the theory and practice underpinning child protection work. (hide)

"Excellent piece of knowledge packed into a book. I love it and would recommend it to friends and family intending to engage in research." (read more)

"Excellent piece of knowledge packed into a book. I love it and would recommend it to friends and family intending to engage in research." (5 Star Amazon Review, 2013). Why is accurate referencing important? How do I reference print and digital sources correctly? What must I do to avoid plagiarism in my written work? How can I use referencing to assert my own ideas? The Complete Guide to Referencing and Avoiding Plagiarism, third edition demystifies the referencing process and provides essential guidance on how to avoid plagiarism when writing for university.

It provides clear guidelines on why and when to reference, as well as how to correctly cite from a huge range of sources. The book explains what is considered good referencing practice and ensures you have a watertight understanding of what plagiarism is and isn't, and how to avoid it in your written assignments. Thoroughly updated throughout, this new edition has also been carefully restructured to make it easier to find the precise solutions to all your referencing dilemmas. (hide)

Why do people behave and think the way they do?* What makes people choose certain products and services?* How does consumption affect (read more)

Why do people behave and think the way they do?* What makes people choose certain products and services?* How does consumption affect our everyday lives?Informed by psychological theory and supported by research, Consumer Psychology provides an overview to understanding consumer behaviour and underlying thought processes. Written in a clear and accessible style it is an essential read for students of consumer psychology. It is also important reading for anyone studying consumption, whether in marketing, consumer behaviour, sociology, anthropology, business studies, cyber psychology or sustainability.
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