Pro-social modelling refers to the process by which the worker acts as a good motivating role model in order to bring out the best in people. The worker engages the client in an empathetic relationship within which they actively reinforce pro-social behaviour and attitudes and discourage anti-social behaviour and attitudes. It has come to be recognized as fundamental to effective work with offenders in the Probation Service, Youth Justice and the Prison Service. It is also equally relevant in other fields such social work, youth work, health care, education, management and parenting.


This updated and expanded new edition builds upon the highly successful first edition to provide an accessible guide to what pro-social practice is and how to do it, offering support and practical guidance for managers and practitioners seeking to implement and develop pro-social practice. It has been updated throughout, drawing on a wide range of evidence to relate theory to practice. It includes a wholly new chapter containing five case studies showing pro-social modelling being used in a police force, a prison, an Approved Premise, an educational establishment, and within community supervision Key areas of guidance include: