Discussion 1: Assessment Tools
Assessments are an integral part of the planned change process. During this part of the process you will accumulate, organize, and review the information you will need to begin the planning and intervention phases of treatment.
Content and information are obtained from multiple sources (the child, family members, school personnel, etc.) and in various forms (interviews, records, and observation). It is essential to collect data in a comprehensive manner-understanding the presenting problem from an ecological model that seeks to gain insight into the concern on a micro, mezzo, and macro level.
Focusing on a multilevel approach to a client's concern and taking into account the environmental factors that contribute to the presenting problem distinguishes social work from other disciplines.
Post a description of the importance of using multiple evidence-based tools (including quantitative, open ended, and ecologically focused) to assess children.
Explain how each complements the other in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the young client's concerns and situation. Then, describe the use of an eco-map in assessment and explain the different systems you will account for in your assessment of a child.
Should be at least 100 words and contain at least 1 reference and 1 citation.
Discussion 2: Evaluating Psychoanalytical Theory
Sigmund Freud is often hailed as the father of psychoanalytical theory. His theory was the first to point to the influence of early childhood experiences.
However, psychoanalytical theory has received a lot of criticism. Although theories are supposed to be objective and value-free, they are developed within a sociocultural and political context.
For example, with historical perspective, it is possible to see that values within the Western Victorian era influenced Freud as he developed his theory.
Another criticism is that many psychoanalytical concepts cannot be measured. For example, how do you measure the id, ego, and superego or the notion of unconscious conflicts? As a result, it is difficult to test the accuracy of these concepts using social science research methods.
It is important to critically evaluate theories for their practical use. For example, is it appropriate to use a theory when working with diverse populations or with populations different from those with whom the theory was normed (e.g., women, racial and ethnic minority groups, those who are economically disadvantaged)?
Finally, are the assumptions of theories consistent with the values underlying the field? In this Discussion, you respond to some of these concerns.
To prepare, read the following from the Learning Resources:
• Auld, F., Hyman, M., &Rudzinski, D. (2005). How is therapy with women different? In Resolution and inner conflict: An introduction to psychoanalytic therapy (pp. 217-236). Washington DC: American Psychological Association (see attachments).
• National Association of Social Workers. (2008). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers.
Post:
• Summarize the assumptions of Freud's psychoanalytical theory in 2 to 3 sentences.
• Explain whether you believe it is appropriate to apply psychoanalytic theory to women and individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups.
• Explain whether you believe psychoanalytic theory is consistent with social work values and social work ethics.
Should be at least 150 words and contain at least 1 reference and 1 citation.