List of theories used in social work systems theory the 1950s were a decade of global innovation from barcodes to credit cards commercial computers to behaviorism and social learning theory what drives human behavior its a question thats been asked for decades on end psychodynamic . Social work theories are general explanations that are supported by evidence obtained through the scientific method a theory may explain human behavior for example by describing how humans interact or how humans react to certain stimuli social work practice models describe how social workers can implement theories. List of important social work theories 1 social learning theory social learning theory which is also known as social cognitive theory was developed by 2 systems theory systems theory proposes that people are products of complex systems rather than individuals who act 3 psychosocial . Preview the second edition of this celebrated book by two of the worlds leading researchers in social work introduces readers to the main theories theorists and perspectives that contribute to the debate on social work theory and social work methods it brings together some outstanding international researchers in social work to challenge the