CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated net income (loss)	$ 32,041	$ (4,363)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Change in fair value of securities	(87)
Total other comprehensive loss	(87)
Comprehensive income (loss)	31,954	(4,363)
Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests	3,153	3,007
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to SWK Holdings Corporation Stockholders	$ 28,801	$ (7,370)