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SOCW 6060 Week 11 Discussion 1: Ungraded Introduction Video

A big part of social work involves building relationships. To be effective, you must build relationships with clients, colleagues, and community and organizational representatives. Being able to share appropriate amounts of personal information is the first step in building those relationships as you seek to recognize common goals with these individuals. Feeling comfortable with sharing an appropriate amount of personal information requires practice and is an ongoing process as you encounter new people.

What would you like others to know about you as an individual who is a social worker? How would you like others to perceive you? The relationships you build rely on those perceptions as much as they rely on what you say. There is no better time than now to plan or revisit your approach to building these relationships. For this ungraded assignment, record a 2- to 3-minute video introducing yourself to your colleagues. Your video should include: an explanation of how you have used theory and practice in the past, an explanation of what you hope to gain from this course in terms of theory, and an explanation of how you plan to integrate theory into your existing or future career as a social work professional.

Discussion 2: Social Work Theories

Who is in need, what is the problem, and when did it occur? Where does the problem exist, why does it exist, and how can I help? As a social worker, these questions are at the heart of what you do every day. The actions you take in order to answer these questions are based on the question “why.” Theory is the reasoning that supports the answers to the question “why?” In social work education and practice, theory is the foundation of the profession; it can ensure accountability, help avoid discrimination, and make sense of complexity and uncertainty.

The concept of theory involves theory types, in which social workers attempt to answer the question “why” for a given situation or presenting concern. Those theory types include micro, meso (also referred to as mezzo within the industry), macro, and scientific theory, as well as paradigm, model, perspective, and ideology. How might your understanding of these terms inform the work you do as a social worker?

For this Discussion, review the theory types from this week’s resources (micro, meso, macro, and scientific theory, perspective, paradigm, model, and ideology). Then select the theory type that appeals to you most. Consider a case you might encounter in social work practice for which that theory type might apply. Finally, think about why it might be the best one for that case. Post a brief description of the theory type that appeals to you most. Then describe a case you might encounter in social work practice for which that theory type might apply. Finally, explain why that theory type is the best one for the case you described. Support all your written ideas with proper APA citations and references and support your posts and responses with specific references to this week's resources. Be sure to provide full APA citations for your references.

Paper For Above Instructions

Introduction

Building relationships is fundamental to social work practice, serving as the bedrock of effective interactions with clients, colleagues, and the wider community. This video introduction aims to highlight my past experiences with theory and practice in social work, outline my aspirations for gaining theoretical insights through this course, and illustrate how I envision integrating these theories into my professional journey.

Using Theory and Practice in the Past

Throughout my social work journey, I have employed various theories to guide my practice, particularly the systems theory. This approach has enabled me to view individuals not in isolation, but within the broader context of their environment, encompassing relationships, community resources, and socio-economic factors. For instance, while working with a family facing systemic poverty, I engaged in identifying both personal and environmental strengths to facilitate support. By leveraging systems theory, my intervention was holistic, addressing both immediate concerns and broader issues pertinent to the family’s situation.

Hopes for Gaining Theory from the Course

Through this course, I aspire to deepen my understanding of various social work theories, such as critical theory, strengths-based theory, and ecological systems theory. Each of these frameworks offers unique lenses to understand human behavior and the complexities surrounding social issues. Particularly, I am interested in critical theory, as it emphasizes social justice and challenges power dynamics, which can provide valuable insights for my practice, enabling me to advocate effectively for marginalized populations.

Integrating Theory into Future Practice

As I move forward in my career, I plan to integrate theory into practice systematically. For example, utilizing ecological systems theory will allow me to assess clients not only on an individual level but also consider multiple layers of influence, including family, community, and societal factors. This comprehensive perspective is crucial in devising effective interventions that resonate with the realities faced by clients. Furthermore, blending these theories with evidence-based practices will enhance the rigor and effectiveness of my interventions, fostering positive outcomes.

Discussion of Social Work Theories

In social work, understanding various theories is pivotal for effective practice. Among the theory types outlined in our readings, I feel most drawn to ecological systems theory due to its multifaceted approach to client assessment and intervention. This theory resonates deeply with my values, as it underscores the interconnectedness of individuals and their environments.

For instance, considering a case involving a teenager struggling with mental health issues, ecological systems theory provides a robust framework for understanding the myriad influences affecting this individual. Factors such as family dynamics, peer relationships, school environment, and cultural background would be examined in the context of the teenager’s struggles. This holistic examination facilitates tailored interventions that consider the nuanced interplay of these factors, thereby enhancing the likelihood of successful outcomes.

Applying Ecological Systems Theory

In applying ecological systems theory to this case, I would conduct an assessment that includes interviews with the teenager, family members, school counselors, and potentially friends. This collaborative approach ensures that interventions are informed by diverse perspectives, fostering a supportive network around the teenager. Furthermore, by identifying external resources such as community mental health services and peer support groups, I can offer comprehensive support that transcends individual therapy, promoting overall well-being.

Conclusion

In summary, my journey in social work continues to be guided by the integration of theory into practice. By utilizing theories such as systems theory and ecological systems theory, I aim to enhance my effectiveness as a social worker. The insights gained from this course will play a crucial role in shaping my understanding and application of social work theories, ultimately striving for positive change in the lives of those I serve.

References

  • Robbins, S. P., Chatterjee, P., & Canda, E. R. (2012). Contemporary human behavior theory: A critical perspective for social work (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Allyn & Bacon.

  • Okpych, N. J., & Yu, J. L. (2014). A historical analysis of evidence-based practice in social work: The unfinished journey toward an empirically grounded profession. Social Service Review, 88(1), 3–58.

  • Salas, L. M., Sen, S., & Segal, E. A. (2010). Critical theory: Pathway from dichotomous to integrated social work practice. Families In Society, 91(1), 91–96.

  • Fisher, E. A. (2009). Motivation and leadership in social work management: A review of theories and related studies. Administration In Social Work, 33(4), 347–367.

  • Green, D., & McDermott, F. (2010). Social work from inside and between complex systems: Perspectives on person-in-environment for today's social work. British Journal Of Social Work, 40(8), 2414–2430.

  • Sutphin, S. T., McDonough, S., & Schrenkel, A. (2013). The role of formal theory in social work research: Formalizing family systems theory. Advances In Social Work, 14(2), 501–517.

  • Plummer, S.-B., Makris, S., & Brocksen S. M. (Eds.). (2014). Social work case studies: Concentration year. Baltimore, MD: Laureate International Universities Publishing.

  • Healy, L. M. (2005). Social work theories in context: An introduction. New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan.

  • Barker, R. L. (2003). The ecological perspective: A new way of looking at social work. New York, NY: Nelson-Hall.

  • Fook, J. (2012). Social Work: A Critical Approach to Practice. London: SAGE Publications.