Three Levels Of Social Work Theory

As described above, chapter five takes a look at the notion of theory, the book breaks down this chapter explain what is theory, making a theory, theory and contemporary social work and lastly expanding the theoretical possibilities. The textbook views on what a theory is that it can analysis of facts that can explain phenomena, it can describe anything values, oppression and grief. The making of a theory consists of developing different perspectives, critiquing existing approaches, question social exclusion and challenging social realities. Theory and contemporary social work is to evaluate theories, like social systems and ecosystem perspective and compare it to social

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 workers implement models to create a plan of action for a client to follow. These step by step instructions act as an instruction manual. A solution-focused model would be used in the case of the Grape family. Gilbert has already stated what he would like to achieve. So the social worker should assist him in achieving that end. The social worker and Gilbert should first identify the desired future, and together- establish the steps that will lead to the solution.

In the professional field of Social Work, there are many terminologies that individuals outside of this group may not understand. During the process of assessing a problem in a family, there are different theoretical perspectives that helps social workers understand different aspects of family situations. There are eight theoretical perspectives that helps social workers understand family’s dynamic and situations. These theoretical perspectives are; system perspective, conflict perspective, exchange and choice perspective, social constructionist perspective, psychodynamic perspective, developmental perspective, social behavior perspective and humanistic perspective.

In this paper I will explore each of these areas in order to define my own personal practice framework, as well as looking at how the elements I have chosen fit within the social work field.

The Generalist Model is having a broad range of knowledge on professional values and ethics and a broad range of skills, basically eclectic-based. By being eclectic, the social worker is able to help the client in any situation from at least a basic level. It allows them to work in different environments, whether it is considered to be micro, mezzo, or macro. There are seven stages of the generalist model; engagement, assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, termination, and follow up. Each stage will be discussed below and how it helps change the client for the better. It is important that the social worker and client go through each stage and successfully complete the stage before moving onto the next.

The other theory that I selected was the strengths perspective theory. The strengths perspective and strengths-based approaches offer service providers ways of working that focus on strengths, abilities and potential rather than problems, deficits and pathologies (Stuart and →, 2017). The strength perspective teaches us that we should recognize the human capacity and self determination to work hard to achieve their goals. In this perspective the social worker helps the client find their own abilities to deal with their current situations.

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.

For this paper, I have decided to research two social work theories and how those theories apply to residents in long term care facilities. The primary focus will be those residents who are alert, oriented, and showing minimal symptoms of dementia.

Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy are three major theories that are used today. All three theories have things that make them similar as well as different.

One of the most useful models for social workers to implement is the generalist model. Since the goal of social work is to work with individuals and assist them in solving their problems, the generalist model seeks to create three levels of practice to better aide the individuals in direct practice service (Farley, Smith, & Boyle, 2011). These three levels are the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The micro level refers to the systems that directly impact a single individual, whereas the mezzo level refers to the small groups (such as marriages and families) that impact the individual. Furthermore, the macro level refers to the large systems, such as cultures and large organizations, which can influence the person. With the establishment of the generalist model, the social worker can better aide the client and work directly with him to help him solve any problems or concerns he may have, and this model has become the most common operational model in social work, though it does have both advantages and disadvantages.

While I have been at university and doing the social work course I come to realize that the levels of social work are broken down into three different categories they are micro, mezzo and macro social work, therefore, going from the little picture to the bigger picture stuff which relates to the system theory. Systems theory allows the client and the social worker can create an interconnected relationship with all forms (Moore, 2009. P86). From what I have learned is that there are many roles and responsibilities and power that a social worker has on the person they are helping.

Reading about the different theories, I believe that the psychodynamic theory and the systems theory would both work well with my future profession. Collectively, as Social Worker, I would be working with children dealing with their own unique situation. The psychodynamic Theory talks about the repression and anxiety cause of conflicts. Children who have been removed from their homes or dealing with and still living in their homes may suffer from anxiety or repression of feelings often. This Theory will help me guide the children in understanding how important it is to express those feelings they may be having, and how to do so appropriately. Lastly, the Systems Theory will aid a great deal in my profession, because it helps to understand dynamics

According to the National Association of Social Workers website, “Social work practice consists of the professional application of social work values, principles, and techniques to one or more of the following ends: helping people obtain tangible services; counseling and psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups; helping communities or groups provide or