Applying Theory to Policy and Practice

Why is an understanding of theory so important to policy analysis and practice? In recent years the analysis of social and public policy and professional practice has become increasingly theoretical. This volume comprises contributions from experienced practitioners and academics in social work, probation, and counselling, as well as from other forms of legal and social practice concerning refugees, 'race' relations, and disability. Various theoretical frameworks are referred to, either rooted in professional practice, or from social and political theory, ethics and philosophy, to understand better the relationship between theory, policy and practice. The contributors argue that the use of theory in studying policy and practice is overall a positive and indeed necessary development. However, they also highlight and explore a number of methodological problems and philosophical issues for critical reflection such as: the abstract nature of theoretical argument can seem inaccessible to policy analysts and practitioners; there are perceived problems of relevance and applicability to practice given the structure and purpose of theoretical modeling; and there can be philosophical difficulties and questions when making any move from theoretical generalisation to policy and practice. The authors address these problems, ensuring that essays are written in a style fully accessible to non-theorists. They make clear throughout the book how theory might be used and seen as both relevant and applicable across a range of practice and policy areas, whilst at the same time exploring some of the limits to this process. Moreover, they directly engage with more abstract philosophical and theoretical issues concerning the application of theory to policy and practice, and in doing so offer a unique multi-disciplinary resource for students, academics, policy analysts, and practitioners.