Chapter 4

Question 1

Theory in Social Work

Answer 1

Many social workers view theory as esoteric and abstract-something discussed in universities
Do not recognize the connection between theory and social work practice
In reality, theory is part of our everyday life-we all use theories
For instance, when we see dark clouds in the sky and tell ourselves it is going to rain, we have expressed a theory about relationship between dark clouds and rains

Question 2

What is a Theory?

Answer 2

Theory:
is a framework of concepts, ideas and principles
provides an explanation of human behaviour, lives and social world.
This explanation enables us to understand human behaviour, circumstances, problems, needs and the social world
This understanding can help social workers determine what type of intervention is needed to address a person’s problems or needs

Question 3

Individual-Level Theories

Answer 3

Varied and complex
Focus on individuals and their interactions
Are rooted primarily in the discipline of psychology, psychoanalysis and psychiatry
For example: Cognitive Behaviour Theory
Criticism: More focus on people rather than on social structures and policies.

Question 4

Example of Individual Level Theory

Answer 4

First Year University Students
Experience of anxiety and depression about school work
Theory
Personality traits or temperament?
Lack of skills-academic, social etc.?
Illogical and irrational thinking (e.g., negative thinking)?
Lack of self-esteem and confidence?

Question 5

Structural-Level Theories

Answer 5

Emphasize social structures, processes, and systems and how they shape people’s experiences.
Are primarily rooted in the discipline of sociology, economics and political science.
For example, Critical Theory.
Criticism: Minimize an individual’s ability to act and overcome the constrains presented by social structures.

Question 6

Example of Structural Level Theory

Answer 6

First Year University Students
Experience of anxiety and depression about school work
Theory
Does high school education prepare students for university-level education?
Level of supports and services (un)available?
Expectations about performance?
Financial burden of high tuition costs?

Question 7

Individual Level Theories

Answer 7

Medical Model
Cognitive Behaviour Theory
Client/Person Centred Theoretical Perspective

Question 8

Medical Model

Answer 8

Formed the basis of early social work practice.
Scientific philanthropy reflected this model.
During this era, social workers began to locate “cause” of social problems within the individual.
For instance, hormonal imbalance, chemical imbalance

Question 9

Cognitive Behaviour Theory

Answer 9

This theory espouses that
Individuals demonstrate maladaptive patterns of behaviour due to flawed interpretation of the world.
Hence, irrational thoughts lead to maladaptive behaviour.
If people are taught to think differently (i.e., rationally), their behaviour will change.
This theory informs cognitive behaviour therapy (approach).

Question 10

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (Approach)

Answer 10

Social Workers who utilize CBT:
Work with clients to understand their thought patterns.
Help clients change their thought patterns.
Help clients re-interpret events in their environment.
Is useful when working with people experiencing anxiety disorders, phobias, depression.
Is guided by well-articulated, technical procedures that make practice relatively uniform across practitioners.
Has a strong record of effectiveness.
It is a preferred practice approach for many agencies.

Question 11

Client-Centred or Person-Centred Theoretical Perspective

Answer 11

Was introduced by Carl Rogers in 1950s.
Central idea is that clients are the experts of their own problems.
A person’s growth is impeded usually by difficulties in relationships with others.
Criticism: Vague, idealistic, lack of consistency.