Theoretical graphic
In my upcoming theoretical graphic, I’m excited to feature several key theories that I believe will provide a comprehensive and empowering framework for working with clients. One of the core theories I plan to incorporate is ecological systems theory. I value this approach because it helps me understand the client within the context of the numerous influences that impact their behavior. This theory allows me to explore the various systems in their life and appreciate their unique story and background, as Payne (2021) highlights. Payne emphasizes that people and their situations are inherently complex, and ecological systems theory provides a valuable lens for making sense of these complexities. However, due to the depth and intricacy of this theory, I don’t use it in isolation; instead, I combine it with a narrative approach and a strengths-based perspective. Narrative practice is another important part of my approach. Once clients have examined their different systems, narrative practice allows them to articulate their life stories and understand how these experiences have shaped their perspectives. According to Payne (2021), this storytelling process is crucial for gaining insight into their personal views and how their past experiences influence their current challenges. By understanding where they come from, I can better assist clients in navigating difficult situations and aligning their experiences with their present challenges. I’ve found Motivational Interviewing to be extremely effective, especially in my work with students. This technique, while mentioned by Payne, is a skill I’ve developed through practical experience. After students have shared their stories and explored their systems, I use Motivational Interviewing to identify their difficult areas and discuss their aspirations and motivation for change. The \\”miracle question\\” is a particularly useful tool in this context, helping clients envision their ideal outcomes and assess their readiness to achieve them.
I emphasize the strengths perspective in my practice. In early sessions with clients, I identify their strengths and accomplishments. Payne (2021) underscores the importance of recognizing and building on individual strengths to facilitate progress. I’ve seen firsthand how acknowledging and connecting personal strengths can empower clients, particularly those who may not have previously recognized their own resilience and capabilities. This strength-based approach helps clients understand how their inherent or developed strengths can aid them in overcoming challenges and connecting with supportive systems.
This approach is especially meaningful when working with Hispanic females, who often face unique cultural and societal pressures. I’ve found that emphasizing their strengths and helping them recognize their value, beyond traditional roles, can be particularly empowering. This approach aligns well with the ecological systems theory, creating a holistic understanding of their situation and support network. Integrating these theories allows me to offer a nuanced and empowering practice. It’s incredibly rewarding to help clients discover their strengths, understand their life stories, and navigate their challenges with a well-rounded and supportive framework. This is why I am passionate about social work and dedicated to helping others empower themselves. For the visual design of my graphic, I’m envisioning a brain with neural connections linking these key concepts, symbolizing the interconnectedness of these theories in understanding and supporting clients.
References
Payne, M. (2021). Modern Social Work Theory (5th ed.). Oxford University Press
***THIS IS THE ASSIGNMENT THAST I NEED, THERE ARE 3 PARTS***
Purpose
The purpose of this assignment is to identify particular theoretical perspectives that you currently use or plan to use in your social work practice.
Instructions
For this assignment, you will investigate and articulate your personal theoretical orientation through:
- A Brainstorm Discussion
- A Theoretical Orientation Graphic
- A Theoretical Orientation Narrative
Part 2 – Graphic and Paper
For this portion of the assignment, you will submit two files: the graphic and the paper.
Graphic:
Using a tool of your choice, create a graphic that illustrates your own theoretical orientation.
- Identify particular perspectives that you consider integral to your own approach to social work practice.
- Provide brief explanations for using/planning to use these perspectives (similar to the example provided for you).
You may use any tool you prefer to create the graphic so long as you can save or scan the file to PDF or image (PNG, JPG) file format. Some suggestions are: Microsoft PowerPoint drawings tools, Google Drawings, other free online diagram software.
Paper Narrative:
Provide a narrative that addresses your theoretical orientation as depicted by the graphic.
- First, discuss the perspectives that were important to you prior to starting this course. (return to your Self-awareness and Professionalism Assessment-Part One where you discussed your initial knowledge of theories and perspective).
- Second, discuss your current understanding of how you will incorporate various theories (choose at least 3 theories) into your social work practice. Include a discussion of which course readings and activities helped you more fully develop your theoretical orientation (provide the citations for readings).
- Third, provide a paragraph that summarizes how you envision integrating your personal theoretical perspective to enhance your cultural sensitivity when working with Hispanic and Latino clients.
Paper Logistics:
The paper must adhere to the following:
- Length: 5 pages including APA style cover page and references page. An abstract is not required.
- Sources: Identify at least 5 sources pivotal in helping you form your personal theoretical orientation.
- References Page: To follow APA format.
- Format: Font and margins according to APA format and submitted in MS Word file format.
- Due Date: Late assignments will not be accepted for credit except in cases of extraordinary circumstances (e.g., car accident, death in family, serious illness).
| Note: You will submit both the graphic file (PDF or image (PNG, JPG) file format) and the paper file (MS Word format) to the same assignment item. (See syllabus for date.) |
Answer preview to theoretical graphic,
APA
1500 WORDS
