As a result of applying appropriate theory the organisation and structure of social work practice may be enhanced (Howe 1999:104). Social workers use theory to inform practice and provide a sense of direction and guidance in their professional engagement with service users

"An alternative way of using theories to help in reflection is by using them critically against one another. Differences between theories can help in reflection in practice by enabling alternative and opposing theories to criticize practice which used a particular theory". (Payne in Adams, Dominelli & Payne (2002:2E) Social Work: Themes. Issues and Critical debates. (2002:33)
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Critical refection can be defined as, “an aware, reflective and engaged self, the term
Like crisis intervention, task centred practice is short term which may lessen dependence. There is flexibility to allow a new contract for extra sessions if needed, although time limits cannot be lengthened excessively in an attempt to avoid aimless drifting and reliance on the worker.

Task Centred Approach

Prior to the implementation of task centred practice, many clients received long-term intervention through “psychodynamic theories” with the focus on feeling rather than action. The concept of task centred practice originate in North America by Reid and Shyne who carried out research on brief and extended case work. Task centred practice is a problem-solving method of intervention and its knowledge base derives largely from a combination of systems and learning theory (Doel and Marsh, 1992:196). It is based upon a clear mandate for action and aims for an equal balance of power between the worker and client.

Owing to Js lack of motivation I felt task centred approach would have encouraged user participation, as one of its characteristics is that it is short term and time limited. I also felt that it would empower J and build a working alliance, which was centred on a negotiated agreement. The agreement covered the nature of the problems experienced, the agreed goals and the time limit for the work. It involves careful exploration of problems with J, from her perspective. This stage is an essential foundation for the next, which