Theoretical Approach

The questioning and procedural models of social work assessment are also ‘process-focused’ and have similarities in making assumptions that expertise in determining the nature and resolution of the issues is not held by the individual but mainly by professionals or other people who are either directly or indirectly affected by the issues. The difference between the two assessments models is that the questioning model is referred as the process reflecting on the social workers agenda while the procedural model seen as policy

Not one theory is more important than the next, each theory holds importance and are commonly used to describe supported evidence acquired throughout the scientific method. A theory may possibly rationalize how one interacts with others, human behaviors, or even how one may respond to a specific stimuli. Social work practice models shows how social workers can carry out theories. The practice models provides social workers with a blue print of how to be of assistance to others based on supportive social work theory. (Simmons 2016)

Shanell Bathersfield conducted a self-assessment. She initially determined that the systems theory was one that she was not comfortable with. Through the last few course weeks, she was able to gain an in-depth perspective on several theories that are impactful in the social work field. The coursework and utilizing Juana and Adelina as case studies, truly gave an exclusive insight on how theories are used to understand the client’s circumstances and improve their well-being.

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

Social work aims to promote social change and social justice by working with people and the environment they interact in. Social work theories function as the foundation for social work practice by providing an understanding, explanation, and prediction of human behaviour, social interactions and social structures. Theory informs each stage of the social work process from the assessment stage, to selection and means of interventions, to deciding when it is best to end services with clients. It is a structured set of assumptions, beliefs or ideas about particular phenomena in the world. Established theories serve as a foundation on which human behaviour, stages of growth and development, psychological and social functioning, the construction

One cannot simply state a theory or intervention method works without providing supporting evidence. Competency 4: Engage in Practice-Informed Research and Research Informed Practice affirms that social workers utilize interventions and apply theories based on what has been reinforced through research. Yet, social workers also recognize that practice can lead to the discovery of topics that have not been or contain little research surrounding an issue, resource, idea, or case. Moreover, we will never know everything about any topic, because practice derives from multi-disciplinary sources and multiple ways of knowing. To demonstrate my proficiency in the area of research and research informed practice, I have provided three artifacts: a literature review, research proposal, and a social and behavioral sciences training - responsible conduct of research certificate obtained upon the

This section of the paper will discuss the definition of social work, values associated with social work and arguments for and against the use of systems theory in social work practice. Social work can be described as a field of study that encompasses individuals and their environment. Social work can be defined as work trained professionals do to elevate stressors of individuals so they may become more self-sufficient and empowered to live to their fullest potential.

Social work practice works with many people in different situations, needing concise help from professionals. This assistance includes a range of skills such as; identifying the problem or problems, apply and use evidence based practice and theories and critical reflection. All these skills are integral parts of best practice in social work, and are needed by all service users.

Social work is rarely working with one individual, as stated in O’Loughlin and O’Loughlin (2008); it will involve working with

Social workers have many different practices and approaches to draw on for work with individuals, families, communities and society as a whole. These approaches and techniques can be varied depending on the distinctive

Social workers have a responsibility to provide effective services to clients. Practitioners utilize many theories, approaches, and interventions to ensure that the client’s needs are met. These tools are not chosen at random, much consideration is put into which theoretical framework or intervention a practitioner will employ. In order to provide a clear rationale for the tools utilized a practitioner must employ evidence based practice. The definition for evidence based practice is a comprehensive process (Katsikis, 2014, p. 260). According to Aveyard and Sharp (2013), evidence based practice encompasses several principles (p. 6). One principle of evidence based practice is ensuring our rationale is succinct, up to date and based on the best

A way for professional social work culture and institutional structure to further the cause of practice-research integration would be for them to embrace the contributions of both academic and practitioner-researchers alike. Then collaborations such as these would incorporate projects that are research-driven, where practitioners assist the work of researchers and practice-driven projects in which researchers act as consultants to practitioners. Institutional arrangements such as these would have the effect of empowering practitioners as “co-creators of social work knowledge rather than disempowering them by emphasizing their knowledge-building incapacities or treating them merely as guideline implementers” (Epstein, 2009 p. 227).

My theoretical application is the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This is my personal theoretical approach, but also I see that this approach it fits with the diagnosis according to the DSM IV. CBT is used to improve the problem solving skills, communication skills, and stress management skills. It also helps the client's emotional state and support systems to enhance adaptation and coping. Also Stress management is particularly beneficial in cases of high stress and helps the client to learn how to manage stress. Since the symptoms are a direct reaction to a specific stressor, so we will have a clear treatment plan by targeting the stressors, copying mechanisms, adaptation, and increase the personal insight.

In pages 254-262, we view how analogical arguments are similar to regular arguments we have studied. It has to pass the True Premise Test and the Proper Form Test in order to be a valid argument that gives vivid support to the claim it is making. Much like any argument, analogical arguments have two premises and a conclusion, which includes features to show why the claim is being made.

For this reflective journal, I have decided to draw parallels between approaches to social work that I have learned in my placement, and what I have learned during my academic career at Carleton University. Placement thus far, has been an eye-opening and rich experience, which has taught me about the profession that I aspire to be a part of. I am a third year student, and much of my time spent at Carleton, has been studying theories, and becoming exposed to different schools of thought. Theories are incredibly beneficial, to teach and inform the practice of the next generation of social workers. However, placement has provided me with the opportunity to apply theoretical ideals, to real life social work practice.