Macro to Micro Social Work

Question 1

What is a practice framework?

Answer 1

A practice framework consists of a set of beliefs and assumptions about how, when, and under what conditions people and systems change; and what a worker can do to facilitate desired and needed change.

Question 2

3 types of practice frameworks:

Answer 2

• Perspectives
• Theories
• Models

Question 3

Practice perspectives (3):

Answer 3

• Practice perspective directs the worker to focus most attention on certain factors when approaching the practice situation.
• It’s a way of perceiving the world from a value position.
• A practice perspective does not stand alone; it is used in conjunction with various practice theories and models.

Question 4

Theory (2):

Answer 4

• Theory is a statement about the real world which is supported by evidence obtained through scientific method.
• Theories provide important knowledge for practice.

Question 5

Model:

Answer 5

Model is a blueprint for action, describing what happens in practice in a general way.

Question 6

Approach:

Answer 6

Approach is often used as a more general tern encompassing models, frameworks, even perspectives.

Question 7

How to select a practice framework:

Answer 7

• A framework can enlarge or narrow a worker’s vision and options.
• Question if the framework allows you to address the uniqueness of this particular client or group.

Question 8

Framework perspective- clients as objects (2):

Answer 8

• Professionals are the experts and know what should be done.
• The clients are expected to do what the professionals decide is “best” for them.

Question 9

Framework perspective- clients as recipients (2):

Answer 9

• Professionals possess and control the services needed by the clients.
• The clients are expected to utilise the services given to them in a cooperative and appreciative manner.

Question 10

Framework perspective- clients as resources (3):

Answer 10

• Professionals presume that the clients are in the best
  position to know what they need and what will and will not work.
• They actively solicit clients’ ideas on the problems they face and on possible solutions.
• The clients’ thoughts and decisions are respected.

Question 11

Traditional practice approach (problem-solving nationalism model) [2]:

Answer 11

• Views the practitioner as the expert in change of the helping process.
• Assumes that it is up to the practitioner to act in the best interest of the clients.

Question 12

Anti-anomic practice approach:

Answer 12

• Cooperative approach: mutuality, connected, interdependence, ‘both-and’ orientation, not ‘either-or’ approach.

Question 13

Predominate approaches in the social work profession today (2):

Answer 13

• Today the social work profession practises from the ecological perspective and strengths-based approaches.
• The profession strives to provide a more holistic intervention and wraparound services.