Social Work Methods and Theories

Social Work Methods and Theories This essay will consist of four main parts. In part one; the essay will give a brief introduction and history to social work theories and methods. Moving forward the essay will look at the importance and value of theories and methods in relation to social work and how it informs practice. Throughout, reference will be made to the most popular theorist. Part two will consider how social work theories and methods can be successfully applied in the drug and alcohol field. Given an overview of this, it will be necessary to demonstrate how two social work methods are chosen, and applied, in the intervention of an example case study. Where applicable, contributions from service users will be used to bring more insight and balance to the essay. Part three will be an analysis of a social work method used in the example case study. From the method, the essay will explore and evaluate, in depth, the way it underpins anti-discriminatory practice. Part four of this essay will conclude with a reflection on how the student has gained a valuable knowledge base throughout the module and assignment. This reflection will also show how the student will use this knowledge base in practice. No reflection would be complete without a concise look at how reflective practice can play a vital part of future social work practice. An initial risk assessment was carried out by the referral worker, in the vein of a questioning model to identify possible risks and dangers to staff and other service users, however as discussed by Smale, Tuson and Statham (2000) taking a strengths based approach would allow referral workers and key workers to work as collaborators, facilitating service users to identify needs and outcomes. During intervention with Mr AB sessions, in the form of an exchange model, were carried out endeavoring that further assessment became a process of dialogue rather than just a fact finding mission with the exchanging of ideas and information. This approach is compatible with the framework of task centered practice, appropriate with this intervention (Ford Postle, 2000) Key work sessions started with Mr AB and from the outset the process was explained and the objectives made clear, it was also explained to Mr AB that due to company policies, and his terms and conditions of stay in the night shelter, these sessions were time limited so a positive ending to the professional relationship was hoped for. It was also considered that this approach would reduce the power imbalance in the relationship; however the power will never be fully balanced when working within legislative and multi agency procedures (Parker Bradley, 2008) However as stated by Dalymple Burke (2000) it is necessary to endeavour to empower rather then disempowere with the need to balance power relationships. In this instance this can be evidenced by the written agreements in the form of the assessment and support plan . Weekly key worker sessions agreed to by Mr AB provided further support as required and opportunity to review whether desired outcomes were being achieved, as in the National Occupational Standards Key Role and outlined by Supporting People and the agency policy and procedures (ODPM, 2004). (Walker Beckett, 2007). It is also necessary to not only collect information as part of the key worker sessions but to balance findings in order to produce an overall analysis of risks and need (Walker Beckett, 2007). Throughout the assessment procedure it is necessary to be aware of the influences of ethics, power, and professionalism along with anti- oppressive practice. Middleton (1997) states that in order to empower, it is necessary to respect the individual, enhance their strengths and coping abilities. It is therefore vital that key worker sessions be conducted with a non judgmental attitude. While acknowledging the key worker has different values and status to Mr AB showing acceptance to people in all situations can be difficult however as stated in by Carl Rogers (1951, 1961) the human psychologist the person should show they are genuine, and portray empathy and warmth. It become apparent as key worker sessions continued that Mr AB was reluctant to engage with this service as he was in pre contemplation (Denial) (Prowchaska Di Clamentis 1996). However, the threat of eviction if he did not adhere to his conditions of stay was a considerable worry to Mr AB as was the thought of becoming homeless and having to sleep rough. It is very important to remember that as key working intervenes in the lives of vulnerable people these people have the right not to be victims of untested and possible harmful interventions. This confirms the need of understanding how theory relates to practice and learning from research and evidence based practice (Rutter, 2006) This confirms Maslow (1970) who shows in his hierarchy of need, that before higher needs can be met basic needs are required to be in place. Therefore to allow Mr AB to move forward in his life he requires support to start a procces to put these needs in place (Giddens, 2006). Mr AB during his key work sessions discussed his feelings and it was felt by him that no opportunities were open to him and that he was struggling against a society that was oppressive and keeping him down. It was pointed out to Mr AB that his position in society was that of a lifestyle choice, that society is changing to support people to progress and that choices were open to him (Giddens, 2006) ). It is however necessary to acknowledge as stated by Bronfenbrenner (1979) that different levels of society will influence the individuals life course. Also stated by Jack and Jack (2000) individuals are products of their environment and can never be fully understood separately from one another. As stated by Crawford Walker (2005) transitions have the potential to be stressful even those that are planned and welcomed. As the intervention process progressed and the support plan auctioned positive outcomes including building on self confidence which led to Mr AB seeking and securing part time employment Doel (1994) states that service user motivation may weaken and it was therefore important to continue supporting and encouraging Mr ABS interest and commitment to work. By adopting a model that worked with service users strengths helped to ensure that an anti oppressive focus was maintained. . Using task centered practice as discussed by Ford Postle (2009) goals were set which would support the researching and attending of courses which provide basic computer skills, with the attainment of each goal aimed to promote self-confidence and further motivation (Rooney Larsen, 1997). Subsequently in this instance the planned ending and outcomes have not been realized, with events determining an alternate course of action (Walker Beckett, 2007). The first part of this essay will lookÂÂ  at the relationship between social work methods and substance abuse Denial can also be explained as a defence mechanism whichÂÂ  is establishedÂÂ  by aÂÂ  person when there is aÂÂ  dangerÂÂ  that heÂÂ  or she will become aware of or actÂÂ  onÂÂ  unconsciousÂÂ  primitive impulses that areÂÂ  unacceptableÂÂ  (Freud, 1967). ). Knatz (1999) states that denial is a defense mechanism by which individuals are able to cope with unpleasant realities. Be aware that the term alcoholism implies disease/condition.ÂÂ  IfÂÂ  youÂÂ  use the term alcoholism in assignments, be sure toÂÂ  establishÂÂ  that youÂÂ  meanÂÂ  to say alcoholism and not alcohol dependency ). IfÂÂ  youÂÂ  useÂÂ  generalÂÂ  references around statistics on alcohol, try to refer to British statistics, you could use National Treatment Agency website reports, Office of National Statistics (ONS), NICE guidelines on treatment of alcoholÂÂ  dependencyÂÂ  for British/UK data, all available on line LetsÂÂ  giveÂÂ  theÂÂ  wordÂÂ  relationshipÂÂ  a different definition from the dictionaries, forÂÂ  unlocking theÂÂ  meaningÂÂ  of theÂÂ  wordÂÂ  often leadsÂÂ  to greater understanding.ÂÂ  -ÂÂ  tooÂÂ  colloquial, would be better to state, The word relationship has varied definitions from different sources of literature. Conflict is aÂÂ  partÂÂ  of most every interpersonal relationship.ÂÂ  ThereforeÂÂ  it could be stated that managing conflict,ÂÂ  is importantÂÂ  if the relationship is to beÂÂ  long-lastingÂÂ  and rewarding.ÂÂ  Jason and Beth have numerous conflicts and barriers which prevent them from having a more effective relationship.ÂÂ  Interpersonal relationships and communication (is a two-way street), too colloquial, say have mutuality Beth and Jason seemÂÂ  to rarely communicateÂÂ  between each other, aÂÂ  furtherÂÂ  factor which appears to contribute to the disintegration of their relationship. It can give rise to greater anxiety, depression,ÂÂ  insomnia, and general distress, reducedÂÂ  self-esteemÂÂ  andÂÂ  confidence, and sometimes disrupted family relationsÂÂ  ((Fryer,1992;Jahoda,1982). Bibliography Barber, G (2002) Social work with addiction.ÂÂ  Palgrave Macmillan, Hampshire Berger, G. (1993), Alcoholism and theÂÂ  family.ÂÂ  New York: Franklin Watts Conville, Richard (1998) The meaning of relationship in interpersonal communication.ÂÂ  Praeger Publications.ÂÂ  Califonia. Heider, Fritz (1958) The Psychology of Interpersonal Relations.ÂÂ  LawrenceÂÂ  ErlbaumÂÂ  associates Jahoda, M (1982) Employment and Unemployment (The Psychology of Social Issues).ÂÂ  Cambridge University Press Knatz, H (1999) Getting on Oxford Books.Oxford Levinger, G. (1983).ÂÂ  Development and change.ÂÂ  Freeman and Company.San Francisco. Manstead, Antony S. R. and Miles Hewstone (1996).ÂÂ  The Blackwell Encyclopedia of Social Psychology.ÂÂ  Blackwell Publishing, Oxford. Maslow, Abraham.(1954) Motivation and personality.ÂÂ  Harper and Row, New York. Steele, CM (1985) TheÂÂ  psychologyÂÂ  of drunken excess.ÂÂ  London Press, London. West, Robert (2001) TheÂÂ  theoryÂÂ  of addiction.ÂÂ  Blackwell publishing, Oxford. The principle areas of social , administration and social workstudies include health issues and administration, employment services,community care, housing needs, crime prevention, disability checks,unemployment concerns, mental health, old age as well as social issues of raceor gender and poverty (Drake, 2001). Social work practice focuses on dealing with the problems of service users. The maintenance and improvement of their social, physical, and mental states is often dependent upon the effectiveness of social work intervention. (Miller, 2005) ÂÂ  Providing appropriatesocial services is an important target of social care policy and social policyin general (Adams, 2003). Welfare is general well being of individualsand when provided by the State, refers to a form of social security or social protectionthat aims to protect people from conditions such as sickness, ill health,diseases and poverty (Malin et al 2002) Social work practice has, over the years, become integral to Britains working life and current estimates put the number of active social workers in the country at significantly more than one million. (Parrott, 2002) Social work practice focuses on dealing with the problems of service users. The maintenance and improvement of their social, physical, and mental states is often dependent upon the effectiveness of social work intervention. (Miller, 2005) Users of social work services are largely economically and/or socially disadvantaged, and the vulnerabilities, which arise from these circumstances, frequently contribute to the nature of their relationships with service providers. (Miller, 2005) Social work makes use of a broad range of knowledge and incorporates information obtained from several disciplines; it empowers social workers in practice to use their acquired knowledge and skills first to engage service users and then to bring about positive changes in undesirable emotional states and behavioural attitudes, or in positions of social disempowerment. (Miller, 2005) ÂÂ  Social work makes use of a range of skills, methods, and actions that are aligned to its holistic concentration on individuals and their environments. (Harris, 2002) Counselling, whilst being a catch-all term, used for describing of various professions, is, an important component of social work practice. (Rowland, 1993) Specific counselling approaches have been developed to assist people with problems related to substance abuse, gluttony and for giving up smoking. (Pease Fook, 1999) In some areas of counselling, which deal with addiction, for example, with users of hard drugs, counsellors engaged in social work practice, function side by side, with sets of legal restrictions and moral issues. (Pease Fook, 1999)ÂÂ  

Monks

The basic purpose of monasticism is devotion to spiritual work and abdication from earthly temptations. Monasticism is known in many religions including Christianity. The word â€Å"monk† itself derives from Greek ‘monos’ – alone, so originally monasticism supposed it’s adepts to live alone[1]. Such lonely style of living has been known from the early years of Christianity, but it’s symbol is the figure of Antony the Great – a charismatic leader of the desert monks, who is said to be a founder of Christian monasticism. Antony and his followers completely left the world and devoted their lives to prays and manual work, attempting to reach cleanse their soul and know God[2]. Those â€Å"escapists† became known as anchorites (the word derives from a Greek word meaning â€Å"to withdraw†). Anchorites strived to stay alone with God and their way was a way of individual salvation. Such approach was good for early Christianity, however, with the development of Church as organization and spread of the new religion in Europe it could not satisfy both the Church and it’s numerous believers. So another way called cenobitic monasticism became popular. Saint Pachomius, the father of cenobitism has founded a community where numerous monks (both male and female) lived separately in huts or caves, however they met for prays and to perform common duties. Such from of monasticism allowed to make it more arranged and uniformed as well as to guide and control the monks. Pachomius himself wrote the first statute to govern the life in a monastery[3]. Cenobitism has not rejected the idea of personal mystical insight, it rather allowed to unite the associate-monks around a figure of a prior. So a monastery in cenobitism is a sort of school where knowledge of God is taught. Both cenobitism and anchoritism are united by several universal principles of monasticism such as surrender of all earthly vanity, labor as a part of salvation, individual way of spiritual rebirth, prayers as basic mystical practice, etc. Works Cited: 1.Lawrence, C. H. 2001. Medieval Monasticism: Forms of Religious Life in Western Europe in the Middle Ages (3rd Edition). New York: Longmans 2. Burns, Paul, ed. Butler's Lives of the Saints: New Full Edition January vol. Collegeville, MN:The Liturgical Press 3.Johnston, William M. (ed.). 2000. Encyclopedia of Monasticism. vol. 2., Chicago: Fitzroy Dearborn Publishers [1] Lawrence, C. H. 2001. Medieval Monasticism: Forms of Religious Life in Western Europe in the Middle Ages (3rd Edition). New York: Longmans, p.- 9 [2] Burns, Paul, ed. Butler's Lives of the Saints: New Full Edition January vol. Collegeville, MN:The Liturgical Press, p- 107 [3] Johnston, William M. (ed.). 2000. Encyclopedia of Monasticism. vol. 2., Chicago: Fitzroy Dearborn Publishers, p. – 215 [4] Lawrence, C. H.   (supra note) p.- 45

Analysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado - 1140 Words

Kawanda Garner Ms. Roesch ENC 1102 29 April 2016 Main Character Narration and Its Effects The first –person narration style of â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† is vital in creating the quality of the story. The story allows one of the main characters in the story Montresor, to tell the story from his point of view which gives the reader intimate yet disturbing look into the mind story teller thinks and feels which the reader doesn’t normally get from other narrative styles. The narrative style of this story is important because it sets the tone of the story. The reader become more familiar with the thoughts and intentions of the main character and this allows the reader to slightly figure out the outcome of the story and further understand the ironies throughout the story. If this story was told from a different angle I don’t believe it would be as powerful. Narration in first-person â€Å"can evoke a stronger emotional attachment with readers; from the first instance, the reader connects with the main protagonist. It is his/her voice, tho ughts and feelings being portrayed; therefore, this is the person the reader is most likely to bond with† (Wright). The first-person narrative style establishes a more personal connection between the reader and the narrator, who in this case is also the main character. In â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† the narrator uses a very familiar tone to connect with the audience as if he knew his reader: â€Å"You, who so well know the nature of my soul, will notShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado 984 Words   |  4 PagesCameron Dickson Period 3 Maude â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† Discussion Questions DUE: Wed., 2/18 Reading Comprehension Why does Montressor hate Fortunato? Does he have the right to punish him? Montressor never said the specific reason for why he hated the man, however he said, â€Å"THE THOUSAND INJURIES of Fortunato I had borne as I best could.† Poe uses this line so that the reader can leave to their own ideas of what would force a man of good nature to kill his own best friend. However, this also leavesRead MoreLiterary Analysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado 1493 Words   |  6 PagesBrooke Womack Literary Analysis Paper Into to Literature: American I Dr. Julia Pond 12 October 2017 The Cask of Amontillado The Cask of Amontillado is a tale of terror written by Edgar Allen Poe. This short story is from the point of view from Montresor’s memory. The setting of this story is in a small unnamed European city, at a local carnival and then at the catacombs under Montresor’s home, around duck. The brief synopsis of this story is about the revenge that the Montresor, the antagonistRead More Analysis of The Cask of Amontillado Essay453 Words   |  2 Pages Analysis of â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† In â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† by Edgar Allen Poe, the dark side of human nature is illustrated through the character of Montresor and his victim, Fortunato. Montresor is a manipulative and vengeful person whom is obsessed with the downfall of Fortunato. Through the acts, words, and the thoughts of Montresor, one is able to see him carry out his plan for revenge. Montresor’s actions lend to his vengeful and manipulative nature. He lures Fortunato into the catacombsRead MoreEssay An Analysis of The Cask of Amontillado1264 Words   |  6 PagesAn Analysis of â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† Edgar Allan Poe takes us on a journey into the mind of a mad man. The story relates a horrible revenge made even more horrible by the fact that the vengeance is being taken when no real offense had been given. In a short space and with ultimate technical skill, Poe creates a nightmare, guaranteed to give the reader a sleepless night.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The plot of the story is a simple one. Montresor tales revenge on his friend FortunatoRead MoreAnalysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado 1277 Words   |  6 PagesIt is often said that revenge is sweet, but that phrase does not hold to be extremely true throughout The Cask of Amontillado. There are various themes and lessons throughout the story, but there is one theme that seems to be shown more than others. The most prevalent theme is that jealousy can lead to vengeance, and ultimately lead to the downfall, or even death, of a person. This theme is clearly evident through the two main characters, Montresor and Fortunato. By looking closer at Montresor’sRead MoreAnalysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado 2056 Words   |  9 PagesIn The Cask of Amontillado Montresor lived for fifty years after killing Fortunato and he narrates the events of the story coldly and that leads some to wonder whether or not Montresor has changed and if he has changed how did he change. O ver the fifty years between the events of The Cask Of Amontillado and the time when Montresor narrates the story, time changed Montresor into a guilty and shamed man that may have PTSD. The plot is simple Montresor has been insulted by Fortunato and he wants revengeRead MoreAnalysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado 1086 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† is narrated in the first person which is essential to creating the authentic aspect of the story. Montresor who is a sensible killer is the narrator, this grants the narration of the story from his own point of view. The reader obtains an exclusive, alarming glance into the peaceful composure of Montresor’s mind. The reader can certainly detect, examine, and identify how Montresor feels and thinks. Readers normally do not get this particular view in other literature. OneRead MoreAnalysis Of The Cask Of Amontillado 1109 Words   |  5 PagesThe first –person narration style of â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† is vital in creating the quality of the story. The story allows one of the main characters in the story Montresor, to tell the story from his point of view which gives t he reader intimate yet disturbing look into the mind story teller thinks and feels which the reader doesn’t normally get from other narrative styles. The narrative style of this story is important because it sets the tone of the story. The reader become more familiarRead MoreThe Cask Of Amontillado Analysis1064 Words   |  5 PagesEdgar Allen Poe’s short story , â€Å" The Cask of Amontillado†, was quite different and very suspicious. This story takes place in the 18th or 19th century which, is noticeable throughout the readings. This story contains a lot of â€Å"outdated† or older terms not frequently used today. Its questioned where the story took place exactly. Why? because â€Å"Amontillado† is a Spanish wine, Fortunato and Luchesi are Italian names, and Montresor is a name from Scotland. The setting is not to clearly mentioned in theRead MoreCask of Amontillado Imagery Analysis Essay703 Words   |  3 PagesAlyssa Becker â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† Imagery Analysis In â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado,† Edgar Allen Poe uses many examples of imagery, such as the descriptions of the carnival, characters, the walk through the catacombs, and much more throughout the story to build suspense and intrigue for the readers and add to the mystery of Montresor’s underlining actions of the revenge and deception of the foolish Fortunado. By using descriptive words and phrases to help us imagine the characters and setting

Graduation Speech Education And Education - 1414 Words

When I finished junior high school I enrolled in a training program to teach elementary students in some of the most remote regions of Mexico. I was excited about the prospect of teaching reading, writing, and mathematics to underprivileged students in areas of my country that needed education more than anything else to bring them into the modern era. I had seen the difference a few good teachers had made in my life. It was one of my earliest ideas to help the youth in my country rise above the limitations of their past and see the possibilities available to them with hard work in school. My father did not think it was such a good idea to allow his 16-year old daughter to travel without family or familiar chaperones to strange and†¦show more content†¦Even though I would have preferred to dabble in other courses and learn more of the liberal arts, I felt an obligation to find, and finish a program that would yield the greatest monetary rewards for my effort. I put my nose to the grindstone and worked to become the best accountant I could be. However, as much as I wanted to become an accountant, I knew I would prefer â€Å"teaching† accounting more than actually being an accountant. Over time the subjects I want to teach have changed, but my enthusiasm is still the same. I keep thinking that there is no better place to change the world than in a classroom. In the beginning I wanted to become an elementary school teacher, and later I wanted to become an accounting teacher. Now I want to become a Spanish teacher at the postsecondary level. So why do I want to become a Spanish teacher? I love the idea of teaching something once and knowing my students will be able to apply or share their information many times. For instance, if I teach my students how to casually greet native Spanish speakers instead of using formal addresses that are found in textbooks; the next time they go to a Mexican restaurant, they can speak to their server in a friendlier manner. Even if this seems insignificant, the Mexican waiter will appreciate the effort and the American will be better off than if they only established a monolingual conversation. Connecting American culture with