Social Work Midterm

Theory

A set of ideas that explain and predict human behavior, social interactions, and systems.

Systems Theory

Emphasizes that people are influenced by and connected to various systems such as family, work, and community.

Psychosocial Theory

Focuses on the interaction between personal and social factors during development.

Conflict Theory

Posits that society is shaped by inequality and power struggles.

Strengths-Based Approach

Focuses on client abilities and strengths rather than deficits.

Ecological Systems Theory

Highlights how the environment impacts development.

Anti-Oppressive Practice (AOP)

Challenges systemic inequality and promotes social justice.

Social Justice

Ensures fairness, equality, and human rights for all individuals.

Person-in-Environment (PIE) Approach

Views individuals within the context of their environment, recognizing the influence of family, culture, and community.

Cultural Competence

The ability to work effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Ecological Systems Framework

Developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner, explaining how individuals are affected by multiple layers of environment.

Microsystem

The immediate environment affecting the individual (e.g., family, school).

Mesosystem

The connections between different microsystems.

Exosystem

Indirect influences on the individual (e.g., parent's job, community services).

Macrosystem

Cultural values, laws, and societal norms impacting individuals.

Chronosystem

Life transitions and historical events over time.

Primary Goal/Purpose of Social Work

To enhance human well-being, especially for vulnerable or oppressed populations.

Types of Clients Social Workers Work With

Individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

Elizabethan Poor Laws (1601)

Early welfare law categorizing the poor into 'worthy' and 'unworthy'.

Charity Organization Society (COS)

Focused on moral reform and personal responsibility within welfare.

Importance of Advocacy

Ensures clients’ voices are heard and promotes access to resources.

Prejudice

Negative beliefs or stereotypes about a group.

Discrimination

Actions or behaviors treating people unfairly based on prejudice.

Oppression

Systemic and institutionalized discrimination embedded in power structures.

How Social Workers Respond When Facing Hard Truths

They acknowledge injustice, reflect on biases, and commit to cultural humility.

Anti-Oppressive Practice (AOP)

Framework focusing on recognizing and changing power imbalances.

Difference Between AOP and Traditional Social Work

AOP emphasizes systemic reform, while traditional social work may overlook these issues.

Delivery Method of AOP

Utilizes empowerment, collaboration, education, and advocacy at all practice levels.

Six Core Social Work Values (NASW)

Service, Social Justice, Dignity and Worth of the Person, Importance of Human Relationships, Integrity, and Competence.

Self-Care as Ethical Responsibility

Social workers must maintain personal well-being to serve clients effectively.

Social Work Levels of Practice

Micro (individuals), Mezzo (groups), and Macro (policy and systems change).

Types of Social Work Practice

Includes clinical/counseling, school social work, healthcare, community organization, child welfare, and policy advocacy.

Differences Between Degrees (BSW, MSW, DSW)

BSW is entry-level, MSW is specialized, DSW/PhD focuses on leadership and research.

Harmful Legacy in Social Work

Involvement in racism and oppressive practices; modern social work acknowledges and addresses this history.

Central Concept of Social Work

Person-in-Environment (PIE): understanding individuals within social and structural contexts.

Empowerment Theory

Focuses on client strengths and collaboration rather than deficits.

Difference Between Values and Ethics

Values are personal beliefs; ethics are professional principles guiding behavior.

Purpose of the NASW Code of Ethics

Defines standards, guides decision-making, and protects clients.

Ethical Dilemmas

Conflicts between values or responsibilities, resolved using the NASW Code.

Guiding Principle of Child Welfare Legislation

The best interest of the child ensures safety, permanency, and well-being.

Key Child Welfare Legislations

CAPTA, ASFA, ICWA, and Foster Care Independence Act focus on child welfare.

Privacy Laws and Regulations

HIPAA protects health information; FERPA protects educational records.

Human Rights

30 universal rights outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Ecomap

A visual diagram showing a client's social and environmental systems.