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Home > Blog > Social Work Interventions for Social Workers (Complete Guide)

Social Work Interventions for Social Workers (Complete Guide)

Courtney Gardner, MSW

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Are you a passionate social worker eager to make a difference in people's lives, but could you use expert guidance on the most effective intervention methods for your diverse clientele? Look no further! Get ready to dive into an exhilarating and comprehensive blog that covers everything you need to know about social work interventions, from tried-and-true evidence-based practices to innovative strategies that will take your interventions to the next level. With this valuable knowledge, you can confidently tailor your interventions to each client's unique needs and goals and make a powerful, positive impact on their lives. So, take a deep breath and prepare for an exciting journey transforming how you approach your work as a social worker!

What is a Social Work Intervention?

Social work interventions involve social workers actively engaging with individuals, families, groups, or communities who need help to bring about positive change. As social workers, our primary goal is to assist them in overcoming the obstacles that prevent them from reaching their full potential. We recognize that dealing with life's challenges can be difficult, and that is where our interventions can make a difference.

Typical Interventions Include:

Psychoeducation.

Teaching clients about their condition and treatment options.

Case management

Coordinating services to address complex needs.

Helping clients develop insight and make positive changes through discussion.

Crisis intervention

Providing immediate support in emergencies.

Promoting policies and practices that advance human rights and social justice.

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Social Work Intervention Models

As a social worker, you are responsible for ensuring the well-being of the individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities you work with. This requires monitoring progress closely and adjusting to achieve the best possible outcomes. You must be familiar with various intervention models and strategies to strengthen your practice.

Social Work Intervention Plans

Social work intervention plans are crucial tools for social workers to assist individuals , families , or groups in need. A well-planned intervention helps ensure a social worker systematically addresses a client's needs and goals. It also provides accountability by specifying objectives and deadlines and gives clients something concrete to review to track their progress. Social workers should thoroughly assess clients and their situations to create a successful intervention plan. They should then determine realistic goals and objectives and outline specific strategies, resources, and timelines. Finally, they should review and revise the plan regularly to ensure positive progress. By choosing interventions tailored to the client's unique needs and strengths, social workers can empower their clients on their journey to well-being.

Some examples of standard intervention plans include:

Safety plans

To address risks like abuse, self-harm, or addiction relapse.

Behavior plans

To help change unhealthy behaviors and build life skills.

Crisis plans

To prepare for and respond to emergencies.

Discharge plans

To ensure a smooth transition when clients exit a program or facility.

Social Work Intervention Strategies

Some key intervention strategies social workers employ include:

Motivational Interviewing

This approach helps people uncertain about making a change identify their reasons for changing and become motivated to change their behavior. The social worker asks open-ended questions that allow the client to explore their reasons for wanting to change and express statements encouraging themselves. For instance, the social worker might ask questions like, "What do you enjoy about your current situation?" and "What do you not like?" to help the client weigh the advantages and disadvantages of maintaining the current state versus changing.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions. CBT aims to help the client identify negative and unhealthy thoughts and replace them with more positive and constructive ones. Additionally, CBT provides coping strategies that can be used to manage stressful events and symptoms better. For example, a social worker may use CBT to assist a client with social anxiety disorder in challenging irrational thoughts about social interactions and teach relaxation techniques that clients can use in anxiety-provoking situations.

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Solution-focused brief therapy (sfbt).

SFBT emphasizes solutions and the client's strengths instead of concentrating on problems. During this therapy, the social worker asks questions to help the client visualize a desired future and take small steps toward positive change. For instance, the social worker may ask the client, "What would be different if a miracle solved your problem tomorrow?" which helps the client to articulate their vision for positive change.

Task-Centered Practice

The task-centered practice approach is a method that aims to achieve change through accomplishing specific objectives and tasks. The social worker and client work together to set and break goals into smaller, more manageable steps. For instance, the social worker may assist the client in creating an action plan for finding employment, which may involve updating their resume, networking, and applying to a certain number of job openings weekly.

Micro, Mezzo, and Macro Interventions in Social Work

As a social worker, you'll need to address the needs of your clients and communities through various interventions. The three primary social work intervention methods are micro, mezzo, and macro.

Micro-level interventions

Micro-level interventions are aimed at individuals, couples, or families to deal with personal issues and bring about positive change. As a social worker, your role could involve providing counseling, skill-building, therapy, advocacy, case management, crisis intervention, or narrative therapy services to your clients. This includes assisting clients in developing coping strategies for anxiety or helping families find community resources.

Mezzo-level interventions

Mezzo-level interventions target small groups, local organizations, and communities to improve the well-being of the larger group. Examples of mezzo interventions include organizing community events, running support groups, connecting people with local resources, and participating in community development. Social workers, for example, may work with a local school to improve its anti-bullying program.

Macro-level interventions

Macro-level interventions involve different approaches, such as analyzing policies, running political campaigns, participating in social movements, and advocating for new legislation. Social workers, for instance, can help by pushing for increased funding for affordable housing programs through lobbying efforts and advocating for policy changes.

How to Craft Successful Social Work Interventions

Social workers play a crucial role in creating effective intervention plans that can positively change their clients' lives. By utilizing care, skill, and compassion, social workers can tailor the intervention plan to each client's unique needs. This involves collecting information through client assessments , identifying appropriate goals, and selecting customized interventions that can motivate clients and assist them in attaining greater well-being and independence. With the right approach, social work intervention plans can empower clients to overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

Perform a comprehensive bio-psycho-social evaluation to gain insights into the client's history, mental health, relationships, and environmental factors. This aids in identifying the underlying causes of their difficulties.
Set specific, measurable goals the client agrees to , like improving self-care, relationship skills, or daily functioning. Keep goals realistic and achievable to increase motivation and success.
Develop a comprehensive intervention plan that includes frequency of contact, activities, homework, and ways to measure progress. Regularly review and update the plan based on client feedback and improvement.
Help clients feel heard and supported, capable of positive change by using active listening, motivational interviewing, and empowerment skills. Strengthen interventions by building trust and rapport.

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How to choose the right intervention strategy for each client.

Social workers have a vital role to play in supporting individuals who are going through difficult times. To provide practical assistance, social workers must take a comprehensive approach and consider the client's background, values, mental health, risk factors, strengths, skills, resilience, and goals. By doing so, social workers can determine the most appropriate intervention strategies and involve the client. Working collaboratively with the client is essential to develop an approach that both parties feel confident with. Selecting the proper intervention method requires careful consideration of the client's preferences, resources, and support systems. Social workers can guide their clients toward overcoming challenges and achieving their goals by adopting a constructive approach.

The following factors can also help in formulating an effective strategy:

The Severity of the Issue

Immediate action is necessary during crises, but less severe concerns may allow time for exploration.

Client Preferences

It's essential to discuss which approach your client prefers with them. Some may want a more directive approach, while others want to be more involved in the solution development.

Available Resources

When considering available services to support the client, if options are limited, it may be necessary to use methods requiring fewer resources. It is also important to explore additional resources.

Cultural Understanding

When working with clients, it is crucial to consider their cultural beliefs and values and adapt interventions accordingly. This includes sensitivity to how different cultures view mental health issues and the social worker's role.

Likelihood of Success

Evaluate the strategies that could positively impact your client based on their circumstances. Success relies on the right fit, motivation, and follow-through. Identify barriers to determine the most viable options.

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Essential skills for implementing social work interventions.

To make a meaningful difference in the lives of their clients, social workers need to possess a comprehensive understanding of the skills required to address their specific needs. By constantly improving and expanding their knowledge, they can confidently select and apply appropriate interventions tailored to their client's unique situations. This approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and understanding, essential qualities that enable social workers to contribute to a fair and equitable society. By developing these skills, social workers can become even more impactful catalysts for change and their hard work will be rewarded with the satisfaction of transforming lives for the better.

To implement effective interventions, social workers require a diverse array of skills, such as:

Communication

Social workers need to possess excellent communication skills to establish a connection with their clients who belong to diverse backgrounds. They should be empathetic listeners and pay close attention to their clients' situations to build mutual trust and respect. Social workers must have strong verbal and written communication skills to advocate for social change and clearly and accurately convey their ideas, interventions, and strategies clearly and accurately. Engaging in compassionate dialogue, asking thoughtful questions, and having difficult conversations are all necessary skills social workers must possess.

To provide effective assistance, it is essential to take a comprehensive approach to assessing the client's needs and circumstances. This approach involves considering various factors such as their physical, emotional, and social well-being, as well as their relationships, living environment, and any obstacles that may be hindering their growth. Additionally, evaluating the client's readiness for change can help identify the most appropriate interventions to meet their needs. By conducting a thorough assessment, we can better understand our clients and provide them with the necessary support and tools they need to thrive.

Creative and Critical Thinking

Social workers play a critical role in analyzing complex situations and developing interventions specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients. To achieve this, social workers must be creative, resourceful, and willing to modify standard interventions to each client's specific needs. By setting clear goals, evaluating progress, and making ethical and objective adjustments as needed, social workers can provide clients with the support and guidance they need to achieve their desired outcomes.

Cultural Awareness

As social workers, we are responsible for providing interventions that respect and honor our clients' cultural identities and backgrounds. To achieve this, we must acknowledge our biases and strive to provide culturally sensitive services that empower our clients. We can make our interventions more effective and meaningful by showing respect and understanding towards individuals with diverse cultural backgrounds. It's crucial to select interventions that align with a client's cultural beliefs and values and address any language or accessibility barriers. We can achieve better client outcomes when we deeply understand cultural relevance and necessity.

Resource Knowledge and Flexibility

As a social worker, being aware of various community resources, referral options, and collaborative services that can benefit your clients is crucial. A strong support network can significantly improve your client's well-being. To provide the best possible services, it is essential to stay updated with the latest resources and be flexible with interventions, adjusting them based on each client's response and available resources in the community. Continuous education is vital to staying up-to-date with new approaches and interventions, ensuring you can provide your clients with the best support.

It is essential to understand that specific clients may need help at a broader, systemic level. As a social worker, it is your responsibility to take action by advocating for policy changes or addressing social injustices that impact your clients and communities. Advocacy plays a vital role in the social work profession as it can create positive change and foster a more fair and equal society.

As a social worker, your knowledge of various intervention models can make a significant difference in the lives of those you serve. Equipping individuals, families, and communities with the tools they need to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals gives you the power to bring about transformational change. With your diverse skills and innovative tools like Menalyc , you can streamline administrative work and dedicate more time to helping those in need by harnessing the power of AI to create comprehensive and accurate case notes within minutes. Start your free trial today ! Together, we can make a fundamental difference in the world and improve countless lives!

FAQ on Social Work Intervention Plans, Strategies, Models, and Methods

With the right tools and training, social workers can significantly impact people. Intervention plans, strategies, models, and methods are essential to guide their work effectively. They help individuals manage challenges and improve their well-being. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about these tools:

What is a social work intervention plan?

An intervention plan outlines a social worker's goals and steps to help a client. Plans consider a client's needs, strengths, and challenges to determine the best way to support them.

What are examples of intervention strategies?

Strategies include case management, counseling, advocacy, education, and community organization. A social worker chooses strategies based on a client's situation and goals.

What are the main social work intervention models?

Models include problem-solving, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and strengths-based. Each model provides a framework for how to help clients. Social workers pick models that match a client's needs.

How do I choose the right interventions?

Consider the client's challenges, needs, strengths, and goals. Also, consider the evidence for the effectiveness of different interventions. The right interventions will uphold ethical standards, respect client values, and have the best chance of helping the client.

Baylor School of Social Work Team. (2023, May 31) . The 3 Levels of Social Work Explained: Micro, Mezzo, Macro . https://gsswstories.baylor.edu/blog/the-3-levels-of-social-work-explained
Social Work License ap. (2022, October 31) . Theories & Practice Models Used in Social Work . https://socialworklicensemap.com/social-work-resources/theories-and-practice-mo els/
Social Work Portal. (n.d.) . Best Guide to Social Work Interventions, Examples, Plans & Strategies . ttps://www.socialwo kportal.com/social-work-intervention/
Sutton, J. (2021, July 11) . 13 Social Work Methods & Interventions for Helping Others . Positive Psychology. https://positivepsychology.com/social-work-methods/
University of Nevada. (2022, Apr l 12) . 11 Important Social Work Theories and Methods . https://onlinedegrees.unr.edu/blo /social-work-theories-and-methods/

All examples of mental health documentation are fictional and for informational purposes only.

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Writing Guide

Professional social workers create a variety of documents, including proposals, case reports, and treatment itineraries. Social work programs prepare students for these tasks through writing assignments such as research papers and essays. To prepare for these writing assignments, students should have a basic understanding of grammar, punctuation, citation styles, and essay formats before entering a social work program.

Professional social workers create a variety of documents, including proposals, case reports, and treatment itineraries.

Social workers handle vital information, which makes the ability to communicate clearly in writing a crucial skill. For example, a child welfare worker gathers information concerning the wellbeing of a child. If the phrasing in the related case report is too complicated, the professional may overlook safety details, which could endanger the child. Additionally, concise wording is important. Wordy documents can take excessive amounts of time to read, which could prevent social workers from considering other cases on a suitable schedule. To master the social work writing style, students should learn to provide necessary information succinctly.

Social work programs may begin assessing writing abilities during the application process through personal statements, so applicants should polish their writing skills before applying.

Featured Programs in Social Work

Types of writing social workers will do in school, personal statements.

Many applications require a personal statement that provides in-depth information highlighting the candidate’s qualifications and positive traits. Whereas a resume may briefly reference a volunteer opportunity at an organization, a personal statement could describe lessons learned while volunteering or elaborate on personal contributions that benefited the organization.

Schools examine these qualifications while reviewing statements, but they also consider the statements as social work writing samples and evaluate each applicant’s writing skills. For this reason, candidates should proofread these documents and include the standard introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. By following these practices, applicants demonstrate their understanding of college-level writing concepts.

Applicants should focus on strengths and experiences related to social work and avoid vague statements and cliches. Instead of noting their lifelong passion for the field, a student could address a single incident that sparked interest in social work. The school may provide a prompt on which applicants should base their statements. These prompts may involve career goals or ambitions in the social work field.

If the school lists personal statements as optional, applicants should consider submitting a statement to demonstrate their work ethic. However, if the school makes no mention of personal statements, students should refrain from submitting one, given the amount of application materials each school must review each year.

Social work courses may include essay examinations during which learners must answer questions in a limited time frame. Students rarely see the questions in advance. To prepare, students should become familiar with all major course components by attending classes, taking clear notes, and keeping up with readings and assignments. Study groups may also be beneficial.

To prepare, students should become familiar with all major course components by attending classes, taking clear notes, and keeping up with readings and assignments.

During the exam, students should begin by outlining the thesis and supporting evidence. This outline guides the student through the writing process and ensures the response remains on-track. These assessments often require three main supporting points, so students may include five paragraphs within these outlines: the introduction, three body paragraphs, and the conclusion.

Learners should also use time-management techniques during these assessments. Students may allot a certain amount of time for each paragraph, plus time to proofread. Using this strategy, students can write and polish each paragraph.

Candidates should carefully answer the assigned question, ensuring they read the question correctly. A single word can alter the prompt’s meaning. For example, an essay explaining how an event happened is different than one detailing why the event happened.

Research Papers

Whereas an essay may include personal opinions, a research paper focuses on facts. For example, an essay discussing a novel could include the student’s thoughts about the work. A research paper would use scholarly evidence to examine aspects of the novel, such as themes, characters, and historical significance.

Essays and research papers also differ in length. An essay may require only five paragraphs. A research paper, however, may be 10 pages or longer.

Students in social work courses can research topics such as drug or alcohol issues, government policies, child welfare, community involvement, and mental wellness. Social work research papers often include sections for methodology, literature, and research results, as well as an abstract and a reference list that fulfills APA requirements.

Students should use a variety of primary and secondary sources when writing research papers. Citing multiple sources reinforces the student’s claims. However, students should refrain from relying too heavily on quoted material; excessive quotations implies the writer does not understand the topic well enough to paraphrase the source information.

Learners may also submit papers to tutoring services before submitting to reduce the chances of spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

How Do You Write an Essay?

Social work programs may require various writing assignments to prepare students to complete professional writing for social work practice. Each form of academic writing serves a distinct purpose, and an understanding of various writing styles provides a foundation to help students during these assignments.

Narrative papers often depict personal experiences, such as memorable vacations or first attempts at hobbies. Narrative works also include opinion pieces, such as book reports. When writing a narrative essay, students should have a clear focus.

Expository writing explores a specific topic and requires the writer to carefully examine the topic. The facts presented in an expository piece can come from research or, if the assignment’s structure limits research time, through means such as logic or an example. Cause and effect pieces, compare and contrast works, and process descriptions may all qualify as expository writing if they are meant to present information. All expository pieces should include a thesis and logical transitions.

Persuasive writing requires students to take a stance on a topic and to support that stance with evidence. Research is crucial to persuasive writing, and students should incorporate multiple sources to support their thesis. Additionally, writers should present countering opinions and prove the instability of opposing viewpoints through facts, logic, and examples. Ultimately, persuasive writing should convince readers that the writer’s position is the accurate stance on the topic.

Comparative

These assignments require students to compare two or more similar concepts, such as political positions, marketing plans, or fictional themes. Professors may assign topics or allow students to select their own. Before writing, learners should brainstorm similarities and organize them into body paragraphs. For instance, a student comparing two artistic pieces may construct paragraphs about color, medium, and setting.

Cause and Effect

This type of paper explains a presumed cause for a specific occurrence. For example, a student may claim that limited health insurance options lead to untreated illnesses in the United States. With this topic, the student could divide supporting evidence into separate paragraphs, such as the cost of health insurance, the benefits of health insurance, and the process of finding insurance information. Using this strategy, the writer covers various health insurance problems to verify the paper’s main point.

Citations Guide for Social Work Students

Using source information without proper citation leads to plagiarism, the act of claiming a source’s ideas without giving the source due credit. Consequences for plagiarism can include failing assignments, failing courses, being expelled from school, and enduring a lawsuit. Since departments require different citation styles, degree candidates should ensure they use the proper citation format for each assignment.

American Psychological Association (APA) Style

APA format was established in 1929 to create a common format for writing. These guidelines allowed writers to more easily interpret one another’s findings. Professionals in fields including psychology, criminology, and business use APA style.

APA format requires specific headers, page numbers, a cover page, an abstract, divided sections, and a reference list. APA in-text citations specify the author’s last name, the year of publication, and the page number. Students may substitute these details for the work’s title, “n.d.” (“no date”), and a paragraph number or section title, respectively, if the primary information is not available.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years” (Simmons & Hatfield, 2016, p. 23).

Chicago Manual of Style (CMS)

In 1906, the Chicago University Press established this citation style, which professionals in fields including history and philosophy employ today. Students following Chicago style may use in-text citations but often use footnotes or endnotes instead. Chicago style also requires a specifically structured cover page, page numbers, and a bibliography.

Footnotes and endnotes resemble bibliography entries but have different punctuation. In a bibliography, students use periods to separate a book’s publisher, publication place, and publication year. In footnotes and endnotes, this information is in parentheses. Additionally, endnotes and footnotes should include page numbers.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years” (Simmons and Hatfield 2016, 23).

Modern Language Association (MLA) Format

Established in 1883, the Modern Language Association supplies guidelines that many English, literature, and communication departments adopt.

MLA format includes a works cited page at the end of the document and specific page headers and numbers in the upper right-hand corner of each page. Basic assignment information, such as the student’s name, the date, and the course title, appears in the upper left-hand corner of the first page. MLA does not require a cover page, which separates this format from other styles. MLA in-text citations include the author’s last name and the page number.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years” (Simmons and Hatfield 23).

Associated Press (AP) Style

This style, established in 1977, covers wording, organization, and source documentation. Journalists and news reporters often use this format.

AP style uses brief paragraphs and concise sentences to quicken the pace of the writing. The style requires writers to abbreviate certain words, use a person’s first name only on the initial mention, and eliminate titles. Writers should also replace vague words with more specific options.

Instead of using parenthetical citations, writers can reference the sources in dialogue format. This detail and the lack of reference list are AP style’s distinct elements.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years,” according to Simmons and Hatfield.

The Best Writing Style for Social Work Majors

Most types of writing in social work require learners and professionals to use APA format. This style is ideal for social work professionals, who often work with documents containing vital information. When dealing with these types of documents, clear details and concise wording are essential. The rigidness of APA style helps writers provide an organized overview of the document’s topic.

Common Writing Mistakes Students Make

Active vs. passive voice.

When writing in active voice, writers state the doer of the action before the sentence’s verb. An example of an active construction would be, “He wrote the book.” Passive voice places the object of the action prior to the verb: “The book was written by him.” Though the information remains the same, active voice states the message more concisely.

Passive voice is a style error, not a grammar issue, and can even be useful in certain situations. Writers may use passive voice when the noun or pronoun undergoing the action supplies the sentence’s emphasis, such as in the following sentence: “The U.S. was founded in 1776.” Because passive voice serves certain purposes and has no technical grammar flaws, using unnecessary passive constructions is a common error.

In most cases, students should choose active voice for concision and clarity. Consider the sentence, “The food was enjoyed.” The reader cannot tell who enjoyed the food, whereas an active sentence with an equal number of words answers this question: “Jane enjoyed the food.”

Punctuation

Punctuation marks include periods, commas, semicolons, dashes, and quotation marks, and confusing their purposes may lead to flawed sentence structures. For example, a semicolon joins two independent clauses, or phrases that can stand alone: “The dog barked; it was loud.” Using a comma in this situation constitutes a grammatical error called a comma splice: “The dog barked, it was loud.”

Punctuation missteps can also alter meaning. In the sentence, “Please stop, David,” the comma before the name directs David to stop. “Please stop David,” on the other hand, would instruct an unknown person to stop David from performing a task.

Writers may confuse colons and semicolons. Colons indicate a pause before an emphasized idea, such as in the sentence,”She knew where to drive: Montana.” The colon places importance on the destination, Montana. Semicolons, on the other hand, may separate nested lists, as in the following sentence.

“The attendants choose between hiking, swimming, and basketball; running, yoga, and tennis; or weightlifting, bicycling, and baseball.”

Writers should become familiar with punctuation rules to craft accurate and clear sentences.

Grammar refers to language rules for phrasing and wording, including concepts such as verb tense and noun-pronoun agreement. Students may struggle with grammatical details, since the language includes irregularities that alter guidelines. For example, constructing past tense verbs often involves adding “d” or “ed.” However, irregular verbs use different formats; the past tense of “eat” is “ate,” and the past tense of “go” is “went.”

Writers may also struggle with homophones, which sound similar but have distinct meanings. Commonly confused homophones are “there,” “their,” and “they’re,” which indicates a place, shows possession, and is a contraction for “they are,” respectively. To avoid grammatical mistakes, learners should thoroughly study the language’s structure.

Writing Resources for Social Work Students

Paradigm Online Writing Assistant This website guides learners through various stages of the writing process, including topic selection, revisions, and idea organization. Additionally, students may find information on different types of writing, such as argumentative works and informal pieces.
Write Content Solutions This website provides tips on grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure and assists students with researching and citing sources. Students can improve their writing skills using practice worksheets available through the website.
Purdue Online Writing Lab The Purdue OWL offers information on the writing process and assists applicants to undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can explore MLA, APA, AP, and Chicago formats through the writing lab.
Writer’s Digest This website provides articles on creating pieces in specific genres, for individuals with particular levels of writing expertise. Topics include homophones and time management. The website also provides information about writing conferences and publications.
TutorMe This website assists students struggling with essay structure or citation format. Tutors may help learners polish their writing through grammar and punctuation checks and general proofreading.

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Resource Library
Macro Social Work Assignment
Social Problem Excerise
Social Work Macro Research
Social Work Maro Assignment
social-work-macro-research

Group Contract _ social problem excerise

Group memo _ social problem excerise, sowk 403 social problem framing exercise online, social problem assignment.

This activity aims to help student groups in an undergraduate macro social work course understand what a social problem is, how to reimage issues that affect a group of people, research the magnitude of the problem, and develop a workable solution. It also gives students practice experience working in groups and using TEAMS demonstrating leadership skills as each collaborates on research and development of the social problem report.

Social Problem Exercise

Instructors Note: This assignment was designed for an online class to allow students to think critically about problems that affect people and give you, as an instructor, a creative way to offer students a "real world." practice group experience in an online program. It will allow them to collaborate and consult with the Librarians and the department chair on the department's needs. Additionally, it allows you as an instructor to observe group work and process their creative ideas with each group via chat, offering feedback through their collaborative writing and attending their meetings through TEAMS. As an instructor, you essentially become the manager overseeing their project.

Note: This assignment can be applied to face-to-face students creating in-class workgroups that meet weekly to discuss the assigned issue, share ideas with the entire class, and use you, the instructor, as a consultant.

TEAMS (or Google Drive): These program are use consistently in organizations with work groups, more so since the pandemic. By using these programs in your course it will allow students practice experience when collaborating on projects remotely. Managers also use it to oversee employees productivity. As the instructor, it will allow you to do the same and intervene when appropriate.

Review your learning platform options for external program connections. There are some that allows the instructor to connect their course to TEAMS or Google Drive.

For TEAMS or Google Drive: You would add the external program to your course according to your learning platform instructions. Then,

set up channels of groups according to groups students selected making the private to each group.
set up folders so they can keep their work (e.g., minutes, group recording, their paper to work collaboratively, etc.). It will also allow student to chat about their work, instead of their normal group chats created on their communication devices (telephone).
Make a welcome announcement.

Communication | Work sharing platform: Students need access to TEAMS or Google Drive to store their assignments, chat, minutes collaborative writing, and hold and record meetings. Students meet weekly as they collaborate and work on the assignment to produce a 5-7 page report on their findings.

Group Contract: Students will develop a contract on participation for the work to be completed as well as develop a plan to solve problems as they arise. This will give you an opportunity to use the contract when intervene as an instructor.

Memo: In the fourth week of the semester, students will produce a memo reporting their progress. Note: Students should maintain minutes noting progress, conflicts, and concerns.

Assignment Completion Time | This assignment takes about six weeks to complete.

Group Contract

Instructor Note: The purpose of this assignment or activity is to assist students in creating a group, establishing guidelines, and formulating a plan in case of issues. This enables students to apply their leadership and organizational abilities, as well as the problem-solving skills they have learned in their program.

Assignment due date: This assignment activity should be completed within the first two weeks of the semester when the social problem exercise is introduced.is introduced.

The goal of this activity is to assist students in creating their own groups, establishing participation rules, and devising strategies to address any potential issues that may arise while working on the social problem exercise.

Instructor Notes: The memo will give you an opportunity to see the progress made and engage with students as appropriate.

Description : Often, administrators, managers, and supervisors are required to update other individuals (i.e., staff, advisory boards, investors, clients, organization administrators, etc.) regarding the progress of projects. This is often done by circulating within the organization or emailing a memo. This assignment will allow the group to create a report as a memo to the instructor on the progress made on the social problem exercise.

Social Work Graduate

Resources for social work graduates

Various social work practice approaches

Blogs added to / updated regularly

https://www.facebook.com/socialworkgraduate

https://www.instagram.com/socialworkgraduate/

Oct 2, 2020

Practice Model: Solution-Focused Approach

Underlying beliefs, key aspects and limitations; practice approach including scaling question, miracle question, using exceptions, and coping questions

This page has three sections:

Background Material that provides the context for the topic

A suggested Practice Approach

A list of Supporting Material / References

Feedback welcome!

Background Material

Beliefs That Underlie the Model

The client is the expert.

If something is working, do more of it .

If something is found not to be working, then do something different .

Small steps can lead to big changes . Give people small tasks that are very achievable and completing them increases their confidence.

The solution is not necessarily related to the problem . What one thinks is an obvious solution might not be right for the person. Work with the person without preconceived ideas.

Reframe the problem into solution-focused language “I’m depressed” from the client may be reframed into “Sometimes you experience depression” by the practitioner. There is a focus on solution talk rather than problem talk.

When discussing the client’s desired future, use pre-suppositional language There is a big difference between saying “Has anything gotten better?” and “What has gotten better?”

No problem happens all of the time; there are always exceptions Explore these exceptions—when and why the problem is not around.

The future is creatable This can be used when someone is feeling trapped.

Key Aspects of the Model

Solution focused therapy assumes clients have the knowledge and solutions to solve their own problems and these can be uncovered by using certain questions. It is a strengths-based intervention. It uses the following approaches:

Pre-session change Early in the session ask what changes the client has noticed since the last session, or since they made the appointment. Improved: therapist asks questions about the changes that have started to emphasise client strengths—so if these changes were to continue in this direction, would this be what you would like?

Improved : therapist asks questions about the changes that have started to emphasise client strengths—so if these changes were to continue in this direction, would this be what you would like?

Same : therapist asks how client has managed to keep things from getting worse—may lead to information about previous solutions.

WholeHearted School Counselling (2022) provides the following that may be useful at the start of, or at some other point in the sessions.

Solution-focused goals Elicit smaller goals rather than large ones, and frame them in positive language. Ask clients to describe their lives when things are “slightly” better instead of when the problem is completely solved. “When don’t you have this problem? When is the problem less bad? What is different about these times?”

Miracle question “If by some miracle things were how you wanted them to be, what would it look like?” This can generate the magnitude of the problem, but can also lead to client coming up with smaller, more manageable goals that can then be taken as the goals of therapy.

Coping questions Help clients notice times when they are coping with their problems and what it is they are doing at those times when they are successfully coping. “How have you been able to keep going despite all the difficulties you’ve encountered? How are you able to get around despite not being able to walk?”

Scaling questions Each goal should be scaled: Using a scale of 1-10, where things are now, and where they will be when therapy is “successful.” If the scale goes up between sessions, the therapist compliments the clients, then solicits extensive details describing how the clients were able to make such changes. This not only supports and solidifies the changes, but leads to the obvious nudge to “do more of the same.” If things “stay the same,” again, the clients can be complimented for maintaining their changes, or for not letting things get worse. “How did you keep it from going down?”

Relationship questions Ask clients to imagine how significant others in their environment might react to their problem/situation and any changes they make. “What would your mother (or spouse, sister, etc.) notice that is different about you if you are more comfortable with the new environment? How would your wife (or other significant others) rank your motivation to change on a one-to-ten scale?”

Constructing solutions and exceptions The therapist spends most of the session listening attentively for signs of previous solutions, exceptions, and goals. When these come out, the therapist punctuates them with enthusiasm and support. The therapist then works to keep the solution-talk in the forefront. Whereas the problem-focused therapist is concerned with missing signs of what has caused or is maintaining a problem, the SFBT therapist is concerned with missing signs of progress and solution.

“Is there anything I forgot to ask?” This question can be used before taking a break and reconvening

Take a break and reconvening Therapists are encouraged to take a break near the session end to collect his or her thoughts, and then come up with compliments and ideas for possible experiments. When the therapist returns to the session, he or she can offer the family compliments.

Experiments and homework assignments Therapists frequently end the session by suggesting a possible experiment for the client to try between sessions if they so choose. These experiments are based on something the client is already doing (exceptions), thinking, feeling, etc. that is heading them in the direction of their goal. Alternately, the client sometimes designs homework.

Limitations of solution-focused practice

May not be suitable for people who have difficulty responding to questions.

Focus on behaviour and perception rather than feelings may limit efficacy.

May not be effective with people in crisis or people with very low self-esteem who may not accept that they have strengths and skills.

There is an emphasis on the positive at the expense of understanding the despair and distress.

There is an absence of underpinning theories of human development and change.

The approach does not include a full understanding of the client’s life, e.g. through including a bio-psychosocial assessment.

Practice Approach

A. The First Solution-Focused Session:

There are two functions that are accomplished simultaneously in the first solution- focused session: development of an initial goal and initiation of the solution building process. Solution-focused therapists use six questions that have been developed collaboratively with clients.

Pre-session change — “Between the time you called to set up this appointment and today (or since the last session), what is it that you’ve noticed that is already a little bit better?” This provides the therapist and client with clues of the goal and moves the conversation from the exploration of the problem to the building of a solution.

Vision for a better future (if clients are unable to delineate pre-session change) — “Suppose, your meeting with me today is helpful. What will be the first sign to you that things are different?”

Miracle question All the miracle question is designed to do is to allow clients to describe what it is they want out of therapy without having to concern themselves with the problem and the traditional assumptions that the solution is somehow connected with understanding and eliminating the problem.

Quite often the client will raise exceptions , times that the problem either is experienced as less significant or absent entirely. When the therapist hears this, it is usually helpful to expand on exceptions . “What part of the miracle is already happening?”

Scaling question Discuss what the particular number means to the client, “How is 3 different from 0,” or, “How did you go all the way up to 3?” Ask how the client will know when he or she is just one number higher on the scale.

Coping questions are useful when a client may have initial difficulty thinking beyond the problem situation and is unable to shift into a solution-building context. “Given everything you have told me about what’s going on in your life, how do just make it through each day?”

The therapist then takes a break and, on return, compliments the client by validating concerns, recognising competencies and suggests something to do between sessions.

B. Subsequent Solution-Focused Sessions

Clients make the decision when they want to return. Subsequent sessions begin with a scaling question and follow EARS:

E liciting the exception,

A mplifying it (by asking the client to describe what is different between the exception time and the problem times and then exploring how the exception happened),

R einforcing successes and strengths that the exception represents, and

S tart again by asking “And what else is better?”

Supplementary Material

(available on request)

de Shazer, S., & Dolan, Y. (2012). More than miracles: The state of the art of solution-focused brief therapy . Florence: Taylor and Francis. Retrieved from http://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/une/detail.action?docID=668487

Fiona McAfrlane Lecture

Harms, L. (2007). Working with people: Communication skills for reflective practice . South Melbourne, Australia: Oxford University Press.

Lee, M Y. (2011). Solution-focused theory. In F. Turner (Ed.), Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (5th ed.), (pp. 460-476). Oxford, England: Oxford University Press.

Simon, J. K., & Berg, I. K. (1999). Solution-focused brief therapy with long-term problems. Retrieved from http://www.0to10.net/sflong.pdf (Centre for Solution Focused Training: www.0to10.net )

WholeHearted School Counselling. (2022). Solution focused check-in scale for kids . https://wholeheartedschoolcounseling.com/product/free-solution-focused-school-counseling-wellness-check-in-scale/

13 Social Work Methods & Interventions for Helping Others

While social work as a profession has remained in a state of flux for some years, dedicated professionals continue to support individuals, families, and communities at their most troubled times.

Their professional dedication remains underpinned by core skills, including a “commitment to human, relation-based practice” and methods and interventions garnered from multiple disciplines (Rogers, Whitaker, Edmondson, & Peach, 2020, p. 9).

This article introduces how social workers select the best approaches and interventions for meeting the needs of their service users.

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This Article Contains:

Selecting an appropriate method & intervention, top 5 methods used by social workers, 8 best social work interventions, social work & domestic violence: 4 helpful methods, positivepsychology.com’s useful resources, a take-home message.

The “constantly evolving nature of social life” has made it difficult to build a single and standard model for social work (Parker, 2013, p. 311). A framework that offers a clear process for social workers to engage with service users and implement appropriate interventions is, however, vital.

As a result, social work has combined various interdisciplinary concepts and social work theories with firsthand, experiential knowledge to develop an evidence base for social workers’ decisions.

While more than one model is used to describe social work practice, Parker (2013) offers a simplified perspective built from three elements: assessment , intervention , and review.

The model is not linear; the stages merge, overlap, and require a degree of flexibility, analysis, and critical thinking to implement (Parker, 2013).

Although the final review stage is vital to social workers’ “statutory and legal obligations” and in ensuring care plans remain appropriate, this article focuses on choosing suitable methods of assessment and intervention (Parker, 2013, p. 317).

What is an assessment?

The assessment stage aims to understand the situation affecting the service user, directly or via referral. It can be complex, often involving many contributing factors, and sometimes seem as much art as science (Parker, 2013).

Typically, assessments are perspectives constructed at a particular time and place, and include the following elements (Parker, 2013):

Preparation , planning , and engagement involve working with the individual requiring support to introduce the need to perform an assessment and agree how the social worker will carry it out.
Collecting data and forming a picture help social workers understand the situation better.
Preliminary analysis includes interpreting the data and testing out “thoughts and hunches” (Parker, 2013, p. 314).
Deeper analysis and shared negotiation are required following testing to put together an interpretation. This can offer the client or referrer an alternative way of viewing the problem.
Construct an action plan collaboratively.

Throughout the assessment, it is essential to engage and partner with all interested parties, sharing the reasons for the evaluation, how it will be used, and the rights of those involved.

“A good assessment allows the social worker to plan openly with service users what comes next” (Parker, 2013, p. 315). The plan forms the basis for selecting or putting together the intervention and how goals and objectives will be met.

What is an intervention?

The selection of methods and interventions is further influenced by the social worker’s underlying belief systems, value bases, and theoretical preferences.

The term intervention is sometimes challenged within social work because of its suggestion of doing something to others without their consent. As with counseling and therapy, it is most valuable when put together as part of an alliance between social workers and service users (Parker, 2013).

The process must be transparent, with the social worker able to explain the evidence base leading to informed decisions. Such openness requires a detailed understanding of the theories and knowledge underpinning the models chosen and why they are appropriate and effective (Parker, 2013).

Finding appropriate methods and models can help make sense of the experiences of others.

Care management

Popular in the United Kingdom, care management is closely linked to the use of community care to meet the needs of adult health and social care. Earlier implementations were managed from the top down and accessed via the benefits system, leading to ever-increasing governmental social security bills. Over time, more autonomy has been given to the community, encouraging independence, choice, and control at a local level (Hutchinson, 2013).

The most common care management approach within the UK is known as social entrepreneurship . The person’s needs are assessed by a care manager , who acts as a liaison to other services to meet the service user’s needs.

“One of the main strengths of the care management approach is the centrality of needs-led assessment from which all other plans and actions are negotiated” (Hutchinson, 2013, p. 321). However, the challenges of this approach involve the resource-limited system. Funding can be insufficient, often leading to ever-tightening eligibility criteria.

Strengths-based and solution-focused approaches

The strengths-based and solution-focused approaches to social care help develop alliances with service users while recognizing their uniqueness (Rogers et al., 2020).

These social work methods focus less on managing risk and what people lack, and more on their innate ability to grow and develop by building on their strengths.

The strengths-based method is based on several underlying principles, including (modified from Rogers et al., 2020):

The individual, family, group, and community all have strengths.
Trauma and adversity can provide opportunity and become a source of strength.
Assumptions should not be made regarding the individual’s capacity to grow and change.
Collaborative practice is best practice.
Every environment is rich in resources.
“Social work is about care, care-taking and hope” (Rogers et al., 2020, p. 244).

Crucially, these approaches work toward solving problems now while building resources and skills for the future. They are also flexible and efficiently combine with other social work methods and techniques (Rogers et al., 2020).

Narrative social work

Rather than professionals being seen as experts, who come in and give their (sometimes restricted) view of the situation, the narrative method takes an alternative approach (Cooper, 2020). It recognizes that problems are often found in the broader system of relationships rather than the individual.

The narrative approach states that the “problem is the problem, rather than a failing in the person themselves” (Cooper, 2020, p. 261).

However, narrative social work has received criticism. If we externalize the problem, are we absolving the individual and removing them from responsibility? Of course, that needn’t be the case.

A common approach within narrative social work is to ask the individual what advice they would give a friend when faced with a similar situation. Narrative therapy recognizes that actions are just that: ‘actions’ (they do not define a person). As such, they can be changed.

Groupwork is another essential method and technique within social work; indeed, it has been a mainstay within the profession since the 1930s (Doel, 2013).

Groupwork offers several different functions, including social control, social action, education, and therapy. Some groups have expected outcomes or goals, while others are more organic, allowing the purpose to develop as the group evolves. For example, a social worker may create a group to support women in a particular neighborhood with severe mental health problems or veterans having trouble finding their place in society.

The group process involves an awareness of what is happening at two levels: first, the individual within the group, and second, the group itself. It includes considering the stages through which the group passes and the relationships and communication that form within (Doel, 2013).

Task-centered social work practice

The task-centered method favors developing skills in people so that they may use them to solve future problems and fostering increased autonomy (Edmondson, 2020).

Ultimately, the approach is “value-led, evidence-based and practical” (Edmondson, 2020, p. 271). It promotes positive change through forming partnerships with individuals, groups, and communities, rather than a more limiting focus on tasks (job, duty, and chores) defined by predictability and routine (Edmondson, 2020).

Task-centered social work is less about form filling and more about identifying and solving problems, and setting and achieving realistic changes and goals (Edmondson, 2020).

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With a large variety of methods and theoretical approaches available to social workers, there is an even greater choice surrounding interventions.

The following list contains some of our favorites, and while arising from several methodologies, they can be integrated and used as appropriate for the service user.

1. Problem-free talk

Problem-free talk can be used at any time, but it is particularly helpful at the start of an intervention as a reminder that “the person is more than the sum of their difficulties” (Rogers et al., 2020, p. 246).

The social worker encourages the service user to discuss aspects of their lives that are not a source of problems, adding a note of positivity often missed when focusing on obstacles and challenging aspects of their lives (Rogers et al., 2020).

2. Miracle questions

The miracle question encourages the individual to visualize their world without the problem they currently face and is often found in the toolkit of solution-focused practitioners (Rogers et al., 2020).

Imagining a better future is a powerful tool for thinking positively and motivating change.

3. Vision statement

Like the miracle question, the vision statement uses imagination to explore a possible future. Social workers can use it with families to compare where they are now versus where they would like to be (Rogers & Cooper, 2020).

For example, what might my children say about me now ? And what would I like my children to say about me 10 years from now ?

The process is a powerful intervention for identifying the changes that are needed and the obstacles to be overcome to reach happier times as a family.

How to create a personal vision statement – Pursuing Fulfillment

4. circular questioning.

Changing perspective can be a powerful and helpful process for service users. Putting someone in another’s shoes by using circular questioning , can introduce new ideas and information, and encourage a greater awareness of a situation (Rogers & Cooper, 2020).

For example, a family member might be asked to describe how a parent, sibling, or child would react to or feel about a situation. Sharing such thoughts can help them understand how others perceive them and improve their understanding of their role in the family.

5. Life-story book

A child whose life has been affected through social care involvement may be confused and unclear about what has happened and why (Cooper, 2020).

A story or book can be written for the child to explain why they were adopted or put in care to provoke open conversations and confirm that the situation was not their fault.

However, it is vital to consider that the story must be age appropriate and will most likely avoid certain factors of the decision making regarding care.

6. Later life letter

The reasons a child was taken from a family may be unsuitable for sharing with the child. Instead, a letter can be written that provides a complete picture (rather than the more edited life-story book) for opening sometime in the future, possibly near their 18th birthday (Cooper, 2020).

7. Exception seeking

We should not assume that a problem has always existed or that the individual can never handle similar situations.

Instead, through attentive and active listening, it is possible to pick up on coping skills or strategies that have worked in the past and may be transferable to existing or new situations. Ask the service user coping questions to identify times when they have “coped with a problem or uncover how a service user manages with a continuing issue” (Rogers et al., 2020, p. 247).

8. Competence seeking

To address or prepare for problems, it can be helpful for people to identify and understand what qualities, strengths, and resources they have available (Rogers et al., 2020).

When entrenched in a problem or difficult situation, we can remain single minded and lose sight of positive personal characteristics that can help (Rogers et al., 2020).

While there has been significant progress in multiple agencies working together to safeguard children, approaches to ensuring the safety of women and children remain fragmented (Humphreys, 2013).

However, there has been considerable success in increasing domestic violence awareness, which “has led to greater attention being paid to the development of legislation, policy and practice” (Humphreys, 2013, p. 155).

Several methods can be helpful in cases of domestic violence, including the following:

Group work can offer a forum for groups of people who have experienced domestic violence. However, the facilitator must ensure that no one individual asserts power over the group and that there are no barriers to inclusion or participation (Rogers et al., 2020).
Strengths-based approaches can help individuals recognize the resilience they showed in traumatic situations and how they could move on from a potentially harmful situation (Cooper, 2020).
Good court skills “are central to social work practice” and can close the gap between the theory and practice of law surrounding domestic violence (Whitaker, 2020, p. 231).
Self-awareness can help manage conflict between social workers and service users in cases of domestic abuse. Being aware of personal feelings and beliefs, maintaining focus, and being clear and direct can help when tensions rise (Edmondson & Ashworth, 2020).

Domestic violence is extremely damaging. It is, therefore, vital that good practice in social work is also reflected in cross-cultural practice principles and inter-agency collaboration and that an appropriate political and legal framework is in place (Edmondson & Ashworth, 2020).

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Throughout our blog, you’ll find many free tools and worksheets to help you be a more effective social worker, including the following:

Growing Stronger From Trauma This worksheet helps clients explore the silver linings of traumatic experiences while appreciating the strengths they have developed as a result.
Strengths in Challenging Times This worksheet presents four questions exploring how clients can apply their strengths to a current life challenge and what they might gain or learn as a result.
Forgiveness and Acceptance Worksheet This worksheet helps clients explore their negative feelings about a past transgression and make the conscious decision to forgive.
Active Constructive Responding This handout presents a 2×2 matrix of communication styles ranging from destructive to constructive and passive to active, highlighting the differences between each with examples.
17 Positive Psychology Exercises If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others enhance their wellbeing, this signature collection contains 17 validated positive psychology tools for practitioners. Use them to help others flourish and thrive.
Recommended Books 12 Social Work Books Every Practitioner Should Read is a great article full of highly recommended and engaging books. Helping others is made easier if you are empowered with knowledge, and a great way to start is simply by reading more.

“Social work and society are caught in an intense and changing relationship” (Cree, 2013, p. 3). The role and influence of familial, religious, and political frameworks have reduced, and social workers are increasingly called upon to help groups left at the margins and in need.

While social work may once have been informal and voluntary, it is now often enshrined in regulations and statutory agencies. As society moves forward, social work must keep up, advancing as a caring profession and collaborating with service users and other agencies to find the best outcome for all concerned.

With such growing demand and developing expectations, social workers must show professionalism while recognizing and promoting the fundamental principles of human rights. They require appropriate theories , knowledge, and methods to determine the needs of the people they support and to recognize what action will be most helpful (Rogers et al., 2020).

The methods adopted by professionals do not work in isolation but support other competencies while working with others and collaborating with the service user to provide a relation-based practice.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that it inspires you to learn more about this developing discipline. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Psychology Exercises for free .

Cooper, J. (2020). Narrative social work. In M. Rogers, D. Whitaker, D. Edmondson, & D. Peach, Developing skills & knowledge for social work practice (pp. 259–268). SAGE.
Cree, V. (2013). Social work and society. In M. Davies (Ed.), The Blackwell companion to social work (pp. 151–158). Wiley Blackwell.
Doel, M. (2013). Groupwork. In M. Davies (Ed.), The Blackwell companion to social work (pp. 369–377). Wiley Blackwell.
Edmondson, D. (2020). Task-centered social work practice. In M. Rogers, D. Whitaker, D. Edmondson, & D. Peach, Developing skills & knowledge for social work practice (pp. 259–268). SAGE.
Edmondson, D., & Ashworth, C. (2020). Conflict management and resolution. In M. Rogers, D. Whitaker, D. Edmondson, & D. Peach, Developing skills & knowledge for social work practice (pp. 259–268). SAGE.
Humphreys, C. (2013). Domestic violence. In M. Davies (Ed.), The Blackwell companion to social work (pp. 151–158). Wiley Blackwell.
Hutchinson, A. (2013). Care management. In M. Davies (Ed.), The Blackwell companion to social work (pp. 321–332). Wiley Blackwell.
Parker, J. (2013). Assessment, intervention and review. In M. Davies (Ed.), The Blackwell companion to social work (pp. 311–320). Wiley Blackwell.
Rogers, M., Whitaker, D., Edmondson, D., & Peach, D. (2020). Developing skills & knowledge for social work practice . SAGE.
Rogers, M., & Cooper, J. (2020). Systems theory and an ecological approach. In M. Rogers, D. Whitaker, D. Edmondson, & D. Peach, Developing skills & knowledge for social work practice (pp. 259–268). SAGE.
Whitaker, D. (2020). Court skills. In M. Rogers, D. Whitaker, D. Edmondson, & D. Peach, Developing skills & knowledge for social work practice (pp. 230–240). SAGE.

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What is Case Management in Social Work: A Complete Guide

As a social worker, you may be called upon to provide case management services to your clients. But what is case management in social work?

Case management is a process whereby social workers help their clients navigate the social service system . This may involve providing information and resources, connecting clients with community services, and teaching them how to advocate for themselves. Case management can also help reduce costs associated with health care, as well as improve medication adherence and overall health outcomes.

This guide provides an overview of case management including its definition, purpose, and key functions. It also discusses the skills and attributes necessary to be effective in a case management role.

Whether you are a new case manager or simply interested in learning more about case management, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of what it is and how to excel in this important role.

In this guide, we cover:

Social Work vs. Case Management

What is case management in social work, the importance of case management in social work, theories and models of case management.

Best Practices for Case Management in Social Work

The Importance of Documentation for Case Management in Social Work

How to write case notes for case management in social work, how social work case management software helps.

Skills and Attributes Needed for Effective Case Managemen t ::

The field of social work is ever-evolving, and new approaches to care are constantly being developed. As a result, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest trends and terminology.

Two terms that are often used interchangeably are social work and case management. While both social workers and case managers work with clients to improve their well-being, there are some key differences between the two roles.

Social workers are trained to provide a range of services to their clients. They may provide direct service, such as counseling or therapy, or indirect service, such as community outreach or policy advocacy. Social workers may also specialize in a particular population or issue area, such as child welfare or geriatrics.

On the other hand, case managers typically have a more limited scope of practice. Their primary focus is to connect clients with resources and services, and to provide guidance on how to navigate the social service system. A case manager may work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, community health centers, or social service agencies.

While social workers and case managers play important roles in helping clients improve their well-being, case management is a distinct field with its own skills and knowledge.

Case management is an evidence-based practice that involves assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of services to meet the specific needs of the client. The ultimate goal of case management is to help clients achieve their highest level of functioning.

Social workers who practice case management collaborate with other professionals, including physicians, mental health counselors, and addiction counselors, to develop a treatment plan that meets the client’s unique needs.

In addition to coordinating care, social workers provide direct services to clients, such as counseling, crisis intervention, and advocacy . They may also provide referrals to community resources.

Traditionally, case management has been done manually, with social workers keeping paper records of each case. However, case management software is now available that can help to automate some of the tasks associated with case management.

Case management is an important tool in social work because it helps to ensure that clients receive the services they need in a coordinated and efficient manner. When done correctly, case management can improve health outcomes, increase medication adherence, and reduce hospital readmissions. In addition, case management can help to reduce the overall cost of health care.

Improving Client Outcomes

Case management has been shown to improve client outcomes by providing a coordinated and comprehensive approach to care. When case management is used in social work, clients are more likely to achieve their goals and experience positive life changes.

Enhancing Coordination and Communication

One of the benefits of case management is that it enhances coordination and communication between professionals. Social workers who practice case management can develop relationships with other professionals, which helps ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the client’s care.

Supporting Self-Sufficiency

Another benefit of case management is that it can help clients become more self-sufficient. Social workers who practice case management, work to connect their clients with community resources and support services. They also teach their clients how to advocate for themselves and navigate the social services system.

Reduced Costs

Case management has also been shown to reduce costs associated with health care. Studies have found that case management can reduce hospitalization rates, emergency room visits, and length of stay. In addition, case management has been shown to improve medication adherence, leading to lower overall healthcare costs.

There are several different theories and models of case management that social workers can use in their practice. Some common models include: the Brokerage Case Management Model, the Strengths-Based Case Management Model, and the Clinical Case Management Model.

The Brokerage Case Management Model

The Brokerage Case Management Model is a model of case management that focuses on linking clients with community resources. This model emphasizes the importance of collaboration and networking.

The Strengths-Based Case Management Model

The Strengths-Based Case Management Model is a model of case management that focuses on the strengths and abilities of the client. This model emphasizes the importance of building on the client’s strengths to help them achieve their goals.

The Clinical Case Management Model

The Clinical Case Management Model is a model of case management that focuses on the client’s medical needs. This model emphasizes the importance of coordinating care with other professionals, such as physicians and mental health counselors.

Each of these models has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on the needs of the individual. In some cases, a combination of two or more models may be used in order to provide comprehensive coverage.

Best Practices for Case Management in Social Work 0

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has developed a set of best practice for social work case management. These best practices for case management are based on the belief that all individuals have the right to quality care. Some of the NASW’s best practices for case management include:

Assessing the needs of the individual and developing a plan of care: Social workers should assess the needs of their clients and develop a plan of care that is individualized to meet those needs.

Monitoring the individual’s progress: Social workers should monitor their clients’ progress and make adjustments to the plan of care as needed.

Evaluating the effectiveness of the plan of care: Social workers should evaluate the effectiveness of the plan of care and make changes as needed.

Coordinating with other professionals involved in the individual’s care: Social workers should coordinate with other professionals involved in their clients’ care, such as doctors, therapists, and case managers.

Providing education and resources to the individual and their family: Social workers should provide education and resources to their clients and their families. They should help them understand the case management process and how to access resources.

Teaching individuals how to advocate for themselves: Not only should the social worker advocate for their clients, but they should also teach them how to advocate for themselves.

Documentation is one of the most important aspects of case management in social work. Documentation is essential to keep track of the individual’s progress and ensure that all stakeholders are up-to-date on the latest information.

Documentation can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the care plan and make changes as needed. When documenting, social workers should be sure to include:

The client’s name, date of birth, and case number
The names of all professionals involved in the case
The date and time of each contact with the client
A summary of the conversation with the client
Any changes to the plan of care
The date and time of each contact with other professionals involved in the case
The date and time of each meeting
A summary of the meeting minutes

While documentation can be time-consuming, it is essential to the case management process. Documentation helps ensure that social workers provide quality care and that their clients receive the services they need.

Case management software can help to streamline the process by keeping all of the case information in one place and making it easy to share with other professionals.

Documentation is an important part of case management in social work, and case notes are a vital part of the documentation. Case notes are a way to keep track of what is going on with each client , and they are also used to communicate with other professionals who may be involved with the client’s case.

Case notes are a way to keep track of what is going on with each client

Sumac Case Management Health & Social Services Software allows organizations to customize their case notes for their needs – including checkboxes, dropdowns, and fields – so documentation fits the nonprofit.

Because let’s face it – no two nonprofits are alike, and there are many different ways to write case notes.

But there are some general guidelines that all social workers should follow when writing case notes, and they are:

Be objective: Social workers should avoid making value judgments in their case notes. The goal is to simply document the facts of the case without adding any personal opinion. An example of a subjective versus objective statement would be “client is lazy” versus “client has difficulty completing tasks.”

Be concise: Social workers should be as concise as possible when writing case notes. This means avoiding unnecessary details and sticking to the most important information. An example of a concise case note would be “client missed appointment” versus “client missed appointment because they said they forgot.”

Be professional: Social workers should always maintain a professional tone in their case notes. This means avoiding any language that could be considered derogatory or offensive. An example of a professional case note would be “client is non-compliant” versus “client is not following the treatment plan.”

Be accurate: Social workers should always strive for accuracy in their case notes. This means double-checking facts and dates, and including specific details. An example of an accurate case note would be “client missed appointment on March 3rd” versus “client missed appointment.”

By following these guidelines, social workers can ensure that their case notes are accurate, professional, and helpful to their clients.

If you are a social worker who is new to case management, or if you are simply looking for tips on improving your case notes, be sure to check out our free resource: Social Work Case Notes Examples & Templates .

Technology has revolutionized the social work field, and case management is no exception. Social work case management software helps social workers keep track of their clients, documentation, and appointments.

Social Services Software for case management can vary depending on the needs of the user, but some common features include:

How Social Work Case Management Software Helps

Client tracking: Client tracking helps social workers keep track of important information about their clients, such as contact information, case history, and demographics.

Documentation: Documentation is an important part of case management in social work, and software can help social workers keep track of their documentation. Software for case management in social work typically includes templates for progress notes, treatment plans, and discharge summaries.

Appointment scheduling: Appointment scheduling helps social workers keep track of their clients’ appointments and helps ensure that appointments are not missed.

Reporting: Reporting is a vital part of case management in social work, and software can help social workers generate reports on their clients. Reports can be used to communicate with other professionals, track progress, and identify trends.

Software for social work case management can be a valuable tool for social workers of all experience levels. Sumac Health & Social Services Software is a comprehensive solution that helps social workers with all aspects of case management, from client intake to service tracking, appointment scheduling, and reporting.

Skills and Attributes Needed for Effective Case Management

Case management is a complex process, but social workers who are knowledgeable and skilled in this area can make a significant difference in the lives of their clients. In order to be effective in a case management role, social workers need to have certain skills and attributes. These include:

Strong communication skills: Social workers must be able to effectively communicate with their clients and other professionals in the field. They should be able to clearly explain the case management process and help clients understand their options.

Organizational skills: Social workers need to be able to keep track of multiple cases at one time. They should be able to prioritize their caseload and manage their time effectively.

Assessment skills: Social workers need to be able to assess the needs of their clients. They should be able to identify risk factors and make appropriate referrals.

Advocacy skills: Social workers need to be able to advocate for their clients. They should be able to connect their clients with resources and support services.

Flexibility: Social workers need to be flexible in order to meet the ever-changing needs of their clients. They should be willing to adapt their approach as needed.

As a social worker, it is important to be familiar with the basics of case management. This includes understanding the different types of case management and the steps involved in the case management process.

Additionally, social workers should know how to write effective case notes and how to use social work case management software.

By understanding these concepts, social workers can provide better services to their clients and help ensure that their needs are met.

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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Assignments

Annotated Bibliography
Analyzing a Scholarly Journal Article
Group Presentations
Dealing with Nervousness
Using Visual Aids
Grading Someone Else's Paper
Types of Structured Group Activities
Group Project Survival Skills
Leading a Class Discussion
Multiple Book Review Essay
Reviewing Collected Works
Writing a Case Analysis Paper
Writing a Case Study
About Informed Consent
Writing Field Notes
Writing a Policy Memo
Writing a Reflective Paper
Writing a Research Proposal
Generative AI and Writing
Acknowledgments

Definition and Introduction

Case analysis is a problem-based teaching and learning method that involves critically analyzing complex scenarios within an organizational setting for the purpose of placing the student in a “real world” situation and applying reflection and critical thinking skills to contemplate appropriate solutions, decisions, or recommended courses of action. It is considered a more effective teaching technique than in-class role playing or simulation activities. The analytical process is often guided by questions provided by the instructor that ask students to contemplate relationships between the facts and critical incidents described in the case.

Cases generally include both descriptive and statistical elements and rely on students applying abductive reasoning to develop and argue for preferred or best outcomes [i.e., case scenarios rarely have a single correct or perfect answer based on the evidence provided]. Rather than emphasizing theories or concepts, case analysis assignments emphasize building a bridge of relevancy between abstract thinking and practical application and, by so doing, teaches the value of both within a specific area of professional practice.

Given this, the purpose of a case analysis paper is to present a structured and logically organized format for analyzing the case situation. It can be assigned to students individually or as a small group assignment and it may include an in-class presentation component. Case analysis is predominately taught in economics and business-related courses, but it is also a method of teaching and learning found in other applied social sciences disciplines, such as, social work, public relations, education, journalism, and public administration.

Ellet, William. The Case Study Handbook: A Student's Guide . Revised Edition. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Publishing, 2018; Christoph Rasche and Achim Seisreiner. Guidelines for Business Case Analysis . University of Potsdam; Writing a Case Analysis . Writing Center, Baruch College; Volpe, Guglielmo. "Case Teaching in Economics: History, Practice and Evidence." Cogent Economics and Finance 3 (December 2015). doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/23322039.2015.1120977.

How to Approach Writing a Case Analysis Paper

The organization and structure of a case analysis paper can vary depending on the organizational setting, the situation, and how your professor wants you to approach the assignment. Nevertheless, preparing to write a case analysis paper involves several important steps. As Hawes notes, a case analysis assignment “...is useful in developing the ability to get to the heart of a problem, analyze it thoroughly, and to indicate the appropriate solution as well as how it should be implemented” [p.48]. This statement encapsulates how you should approach preparing to write a case analysis paper.

Before you begin to write your paper, consider the following analytical procedures:

Review the case to get an overview of the situation . A case can be only a few pages in length, however, it is most often very lengthy and contains a significant amount of detailed background information and statistics, with multilayered descriptions of the scenario, the roles and behaviors of various stakeholder groups, and situational events. Therefore, a quick reading of the case will help you gain an overall sense of the situation and illuminate the types of issues and problems that you will need to address in your paper. If your professor has provided questions intended to help frame your analysis, use them to guide your initial reading of the case.
Read the case thoroughly . After gaining a general overview of the case, carefully read the content again with the purpose of understanding key circumstances, events, and behaviors among stakeholder groups. Look for information or data that appears contradictory, extraneous, or misleading. At this point, you should be taking notes as you read because this will help you develop a general outline of your paper. The aim is to obtain a complete understanding of the situation so that you can begin contemplating tentative answers to any questions your professor has provided or, if they have not provided, developing answers to your own questions about the case scenario and its connection to the course readings,lectures, and class discussions.
Determine key stakeholder groups, issues, and events and the relationships they all have to each other . As you analyze the content, pay particular attention to identifying individuals, groups, or organizations described in the case and identify evidence of any problems or issues of concern that impact the situation in a negative way. Other things to look for include identifying any assumptions being made by or about each stakeholder, potential biased explanations or actions, explicit demands or ultimatums , and the underlying concerns that motivate these behaviors among stakeholders. The goal at this stage is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the situational and behavioral dynamics of the case and the explicit and implicit consequences of each of these actions.
Identify the core problems . The next step in most case analysis assignments is to discern what the core [i.e., most damaging, detrimental, injurious] problems are within the organizational setting and to determine their implications. The purpose at this stage of preparing to write your analysis paper is to distinguish between the symptoms of core problems and the core problems themselves and to decide which of these must be addressed immediately and which problems do not appear critical but may escalate over time. Identify evidence from the case to support your decisions by determining what information or data is essential to addressing the core problems and what information is not relevant or is misleading.
Explore alternative solutions . As noted, case analysis scenarios rarely have only one correct answer. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that the process of analyzing the case and diagnosing core problems, while based on evidence, is a subjective process open to various avenues of interpretation. This means that you must consider alternative solutions or courses of action by critically examining strengths and weaknesses, risk factors, and the differences between short and long-term solutions. For each possible solution or course of action, consider the consequences they may have related to their implementation and how these recommendations might lead to new problems. Also, consider thinking about your recommended solutions or courses of action in relation to issues of fairness, equity, and inclusion.
Decide on a final set of recommendations . The last stage in preparing to write a case analysis paper is to assert an opinion or viewpoint about the recommendations needed to help resolve the core problems as you see them and to make a persuasive argument for supporting this point of view. Prepare a clear rationale for your recommendations based on examining each element of your analysis. Anticipate possible obstacles that could derail their implementation. Consider any counter-arguments that could be made concerning the validity of your recommended actions. Finally, describe a set of criteria and measurable indicators that could be applied to evaluating the effectiveness of your implementation plan.

Use these steps as the framework for writing your paper. Remember that the more detailed you are in taking notes as you critically examine each element of the case, the more information you will have to draw from when you begin to write. This will save you time.

NOTE : If the process of preparing to write a case analysis paper is assigned as a student group project, consider having each member of the group analyze a specific element of the case, including drafting answers to the corresponding questions used by your professor to frame the analysis. This will help make the analytical process more efficient and ensure that the distribution of work is equitable. This can also facilitate who is responsible for drafting each part of the final case analysis paper and, if applicable, the in-class presentation.

Framework for Case Analysis . College of Management. University of Massachusetts; Hawes, Jon M. "Teaching is Not Telling: The Case Method as a Form of Interactive Learning." Journal for Advancement of Marketing Education 5 (Winter 2004): 47-54; Rasche, Christoph and Achim Seisreiner. Guidelines for Business Case Analysis . University of Potsdam; Writing a Case Study Analysis . University of Arizona Global Campus Writing Center; Van Ness, Raymond K. A Guide to Case Analysis . School of Business. State University of New York, Albany; Writing a Case Analysis . Business School, University of New South Wales.

Structure and Writing Style

A case analysis paper should be detailed, concise, persuasive, clearly written, and professional in tone and in the use of language . As with other forms of college-level academic writing, declarative statements that convey information, provide a fact, or offer an explanation or any recommended courses of action should be based on evidence. If allowed by your professor, any external sources used to support your analysis, such as course readings, should be properly cited under a list of references. The organization and structure of case analysis papers can vary depending on your professor’s preferred format, but its structure generally follows the steps used for analyzing the case.

Introduction

The introduction should provide a succinct but thorough descriptive overview of the main facts, issues, and core problems of the case . The introduction should also include a brief summary of the most relevant details about the situation and organizational setting. This includes defining the theoretical framework or conceptual model on which any questions were used to frame your analysis.

Following the rules of most college-level research papers, the introduction should then inform the reader how the paper will be organized. This includes describing the major sections of the paper and the order in which they will be presented. Unless you are told to do so by your professor, you do not need to preview your final recommendations in the introduction. U nlike most college-level research papers , the introduction does not include a statement about the significance of your findings because a case analysis assignment does not involve contributing new knowledge about a research problem.

Background Analysis

Background analysis can vary depending on any guiding questions provided by your professor and the underlying concept or theory that the case is based upon. In general, however, this section of your paper should focus on:

Providing an overarching analysis of problems identified from the case scenario, including identifying events that stakeholders find challenging or troublesome,
Identifying assumptions made by each stakeholder and any apparent biases they may exhibit,
Describing any demands or claims made by or forced upon key stakeholders, and
Highlighting any issues of concern or complaints expressed by stakeholders in response to those demands or claims.

These aspects of the case are often in the form of behavioral responses expressed by individuals or groups within the organizational setting. However, note that problems in a case situation can also be reflected in data [or the lack thereof] and in the decision-making, operational, cultural, or institutional structure of the organization. Additionally, demands or claims can be either internal and external to the organization [e.g., a case analysis involving a president considering arms sales to Saudi Arabia could include managing internal demands from White House advisors as well as demands from members of Congress].

Throughout this section, present all relevant evidence from the case that supports your analysis. Do not simply claim there is a problem, an assumption, a demand, or a concern; tell the reader what part of the case informed how you identified these background elements.

Identification of Problems

In most case analysis assignments, there are problems, and then there are problems . Each problem can reflect a multitude of underlying symptoms that are detrimental to the interests of the organization. The purpose of identifying problems is to teach students how to differentiate between problems that vary in severity, impact, and relative importance. Given this, problems can be described in three general forms: those that must be addressed immediately, those that should be addressed but the impact is not severe, and those that do not require immediate attention and can be set aside for the time being.

All of the problems you identify from the case should be identified in this section of your paper, with a description based on evidence explaining the problem variances. If the assignment asks you to conduct research to further support your assessment of the problems, include this in your explanation. Remember to cite those sources in a list of references. Use specific evidence from the case and apply appropriate concepts, theories, and models discussed in class or in relevant course readings to highlight and explain the key problems [or problem] that you believe must be solved immediately and describe the underlying symptoms and why they are so critical.

Alternative Solutions

This section is where you provide specific, realistic, and evidence-based solutions to the problems you have identified and make recommendations about how to alleviate the underlying symptomatic conditions impacting the organizational setting. For each solution, you must explain why it was chosen and provide clear evidence to support your reasoning. This can include, for example, course readings and class discussions as well as research resources, such as, books, journal articles, research reports, or government documents. In some cases, your professor may encourage you to include personal, anecdotal experiences as evidence to support why you chose a particular solution or set of solutions. Using anecdotal evidence helps promote reflective thinking about the process of determining what qualifies as a core problem and relevant solution .

Throughout this part of the paper, keep in mind the entire array of problems that must be addressed and describe in detail the solutions that might be implemented to resolve these problems.

Recommended Courses of Action

In some case analysis assignments, your professor may ask you to combine the alternative solutions section with your recommended courses of action. However, it is important to know the difference between the two. A solution refers to the answer to a problem. A course of action refers to a procedure or deliberate sequence of activities adopted to proactively confront a situation, often in the context of accomplishing a goal. In this context, proposed courses of action are based on your analysis of alternative solutions. Your description and justification for pursuing each course of action should represent the overall plan for implementing your recommendations.

For each course of action, you need to explain the rationale for your recommendation in a way that confronts challenges, explains risks, and anticipates any counter-arguments from stakeholders. Do this by considering the strengths and weaknesses of each course of action framed in relation to how the action is expected to resolve the core problems presented, the possible ways the action may affect remaining problems, and how the recommended action will be perceived by each stakeholder.

In addition, you should describe the criteria needed to measure how well the implementation of these actions is working and explain which individuals or groups are responsible for ensuring your recommendations are successful. In addition, always consider the law of unintended consequences. Outline difficulties that may arise in implementing each course of action and describe how implementing the proposed courses of action [either individually or collectively] may lead to new problems [both large and small].

Throughout this section, you must consider the costs and benefits of recommending your courses of action in relation to uncertainties or missing information and the negative consequences of success.

The conclusion should be brief and introspective. Unlike a research paper, the conclusion in a case analysis paper does not include a summary of key findings and their significance, a statement about how the study contributed to existing knowledge, or indicate opportunities for future research.

Begin by synthesizing the core problems presented in the case and the relevance of your recommended solutions. This can include an explanation of what you have learned about the case in the context of your answers to the questions provided by your professor. The conclusion is also where you link what you learned from analyzing the case with the course readings or class discussions. This can further demonstrate your understanding of the relationships between the practical case situation and the theoretical and abstract content of assigned readings and other course content.

Problems to Avoid

The literature on case analysis assignments often includes examples of difficulties students have with applying methods of critical analysis and effectively reporting the results of their assessment of the situation. A common reason cited by scholars is that the application of this type of teaching and learning method is limited to applied fields of social and behavioral sciences and, as a result, writing a case analysis paper can be unfamiliar to most students entering college.

After you have drafted your paper, proofread the narrative flow and revise any of these common errors:

Unnecessary detail in the background section . The background section should highlight the essential elements of the case based on your analysis. Focus on summarizing the facts and highlighting the key factors that become relevant in the other sections of the paper by eliminating any unnecessary information.
Analysis relies too much on opinion . Your analysis is interpretive, but the narrative must be connected clearly to evidence from the case and any models and theories discussed in class or in course readings. Any positions or arguments you make should be supported by evidence.
Analysis does not focus on the most important elements of the case . Your paper should provide a thorough overview of the case. However, the analysis should focus on providing evidence about what you identify are the key events, stakeholders, issues, and problems. Emphasize what you identify as the most critical aspects of the case to be developed throughout your analysis. Be thorough but succinct.
Writing is too descriptive . A paper with too much descriptive information detracts from your analysis of the complexities of the case situation. Questions about what happened, where, when, and by whom should only be included as essential information leading to your examination of questions related to why, how, and for what purpose.
Inadequate definition of a core problem and associated symptoms . A common error found in case analysis papers is recommending a solution or course of action without adequately defining or demonstrating that you understand the problem. Make sure you have clearly described the problem and its impact and scope within the organizational setting. Ensure that you have adequately described the root causes w hen describing the symptoms of the problem.
Recommendations lack specificity . Identify any use of vague statements and indeterminate terminology, such as, “A particular experience” or “a large increase to the budget.” These statements cannot be measured and, as a result, there is no way to evaluate their successful implementation. Provide specific data and use direct language in describing recommended actions.
Unrealistic, exaggerated, or unattainable recommendations . Review your recommendations to ensure that they are based on the situational facts of the case. Your recommended solutions and courses of action must be based on realistic assumptions and fit within the constraints of the situation. Also note that the case scenario has already happened, therefore, any speculation or arguments about what could have occurred if the circumstances were different should be revised or eliminated.

Bee, Lian Song et al. "Business Students' Perspectives on Case Method Coaching for Problem-Based Learning: Impacts on Student Engagement and Learning Performance in Higher Education." Education & Training 64 (2022): 416-432; The Case Analysis . Fred Meijer Center for Writing and Michigan Authors. Grand Valley State University; Georgallis, Panikos and Kayleigh Bruijn. "Sustainability Teaching using Case-Based Debates." Journal of International Education in Business 15 (2022): 147-163; Hawes, Jon M. "Teaching is Not Telling: The Case Method as a Form of Interactive Learning." Journal for Advancement of Marketing Education 5 (Winter 2004): 47-54; Georgallis, Panikos, and Kayleigh Bruijn. "Sustainability Teaching Using Case-based Debates." Journal of International Education in Business 15 (2022): 147-163; .Dean, Kathy Lund and Charles J. Fornaciari. "How to Create and Use Experiential Case-Based Exercises in a Management Classroom." Journal of Management Education 26 (October 2002): 586-603; Klebba, Joanne M. and Janet G. Hamilton. "Structured Case Analysis: Developing Critical Thinking Skills in a Marketing Case Course." Journal of Marketing Education 29 (August 2007): 132-137, 139; Klein, Norman. "The Case Discussion Method Revisited: Some Questions about Student Skills." Exchange: The Organizational Behavior Teaching Journal 6 (November 1981): 30-32; Mukherjee, Arup. "Effective Use of In-Class Mini Case Analysis for Discovery Learning in an Undergraduate MIS Course." The Journal of Computer Information Systems 40 (Spring 2000): 15-23; Pessoa, Silviaet al. "Scaffolding the Case Analysis in an Organizational Behavior Course: Making Analytical Language Explicit." Journal of Management Education 46 (2022): 226-251: Ramsey, V. J. and L. D. Dodge. "Case Analysis: A Structured Approach." Exchange: The Organizational Behavior Teaching Journal 6 (November 1981): 27-29; Schweitzer, Karen. "How to Write and Format a Business Case Study." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/how-to-write-and-format-a-business-case-study-466324 (accessed December 5, 2022); Reddy, C. D. "Teaching Research Methodology: Everything's a Case." Electronic Journal of Business Research Methods 18 (December 2020): 178-188; Volpe, Guglielmo. "Case Teaching in Economics: History, Practice and Evidence." Cogent Economics and Finance 3 (December 2015). doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/23322039.2015.1120977.

Writing Tip

Ca se Study and Case Analysis Are Not the Same!

Confusion often exists between what it means to write a paper that uses a case study research design and writing a paper that analyzes a case; they are two different types of approaches to learning in the social and behavioral sciences. Professors as well as educational researchers contribute to this confusion because they often use the term "case study" when describing the subject of analysis for a case analysis paper. But you are not studying a case for the purpose of generating a comprehensive, multi-faceted understanding of a research problem. R ather, you are critically analyzing a specific scenario to argue logically for recommended solutions and courses of action that lead to optimal outcomes applicable to professional practice.

To avoid any confusion, here are twelve characteristics that delineate the differences between writing a paper using the case study research method and writing a case analysis paper:

Case study is a method of in-depth research and rigorous inquiry ; case analysis is a reliable method of teaching and learning . A case study is a modality of research that investigates a phenomenon for the purpose of creating new knowledge, solving a problem, or testing a hypothesis using empirical evidence derived from the case being studied. Often, the results are used to generalize about a larger population or within a wider context. The writing adheres to the traditional standards of a scholarly research study. A case analysis is a pedagogical tool used to teach students how to reflect and think critically about a practical, real-life problem in an organizational setting.
The researcher is responsible for identifying the case to study; a case analysis is assigned by your professor . As the researcher, you choose the case study to investigate in support of obtaining new knowledge and understanding about the research problem. The case in a case analysis assignment is almost always provided, and sometimes written, by your professor and either given to every student in class to analyze individually or to a small group of students, or students select a case to analyze from a predetermined list.
A case study is indeterminate and boundless; a case analysis is predetermined and confined . A case study can be almost anything [see item 9 below] as long as it relates directly to examining the research problem. This relationship is the only limit to what a researcher can choose as the subject of their case study. The content of a case analysis is determined by your professor and its parameters are well-defined and limited to elucidating insights of practical value applied to practice.
Case study is fact-based and describes actual events or situations; case analysis can be entirely fictional or adapted from an actual situation . The entire content of a case study must be grounded in reality to be a valid subject of investigation in an empirical research study. A case analysis only needs to set the stage for critically examining a situation in practice and, therefore, can be entirely fictional or adapted, all or in-part, from an actual situation.
Research using a case study method must adhere to principles of intellectual honesty and academic integrity; a case analysis scenario can include misleading or false information . A case study paper must report research objectively and factually to ensure that any findings are understood to be logically correct and trustworthy. A case analysis scenario may include misleading or false information intended to deliberately distract from the central issues of the case. The purpose is to teach students how to sort through conflicting or useless information in order to come up with the preferred solution. Any use of misleading or false information in academic research is considered unethical.
Case study is linked to a research problem; case analysis is linked to a practical situation or scenario . In the social sciences, the subject of an investigation is most often framed as a problem that must be researched in order to generate new knowledge leading to a solution. Case analysis narratives are grounded in real life scenarios for the purpose of examining the realities of decision-making behavior and processes within organizational settings. A case analysis assignments include a problem or set of problems to be analyzed. However, the goal is centered around the act of identifying and evaluating courses of action leading to best possible outcomes.
The purpose of a case study is to create new knowledge through research; the purpose of a case analysis is to teach new understanding . Case studies are a choice of methodological design intended to create new knowledge about resolving a research problem. A case analysis is a mode of teaching and learning intended to create new understanding and an awareness of uncertainty applied to practice through acts of critical thinking and reflection.
A case study seeks to identify the best possible solution to a research problem; case analysis can have an indeterminate set of solutions or outcomes . Your role in studying a case is to discover the most logical, evidence-based ways to address a research problem. A case analysis assignment rarely has a single correct answer because one of the goals is to force students to confront the real life dynamics of uncertainly, ambiguity, and missing or conflicting information within professional practice. Under these conditions, a perfect outcome or solution almost never exists.
Case study is unbounded and relies on gathering external information; case analysis is a self-contained subject of analysis . The scope of a case study chosen as a method of research is bounded. However, the researcher is free to gather whatever information and data is necessary to investigate its relevance to understanding the research problem. For a case analysis assignment, your professor will often ask you to examine solutions or recommended courses of action based solely on facts and information from the case.
Case study can be a person, place, object, issue, event, condition, or phenomenon; a case analysis is a carefully constructed synopsis of events, situations, and behaviors . The research problem dictates the type of case being studied and, therefore, the design can encompass almost anything tangible as long as it fulfills the objective of generating new knowledge and understanding. A case analysis is in the form of a narrative containing descriptions of facts, situations, processes, rules, and behaviors within a particular setting and under a specific set of circumstances.
Case study can represent an open-ended subject of inquiry; a case analysis is a narrative about something that has happened in the past . A case study is not restricted by time and can encompass an event or issue with no temporal limit or end. For example, the current war in Ukraine can be used as a case study of how medical personnel help civilians during a large military conflict, even though circumstances around this event are still evolving. A case analysis can be used to elicit critical thinking about current or future situations in practice, but the case itself is a narrative about something finite and that has taken place in the past.
Multiple case studies can be used in a research study; case analysis involves examining a single scenario . Case study research can use two or more cases to examine a problem, often for the purpose of conducting a comparative investigation intended to discover hidden relationships, document emerging trends, or determine variations among different examples. A case analysis assignment typically describes a stand-alone, self-contained situation and any comparisons among cases are conducted during in-class discussions and/or student presentations.

The Case Analysis . Fred Meijer Center for Writing and Michigan Authors. Grand Valley State University; Mills, Albert J. , Gabrielle Durepos, and Eiden Wiebe, editors. Encyclopedia of Case Study Research . Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, 2010; Ramsey, V. J. and L. D. Dodge. "Case Analysis: A Structured Approach." Exchange: The Organizational Behavior Teaching Journal 6 (November 1981): 27-29; Yin, Robert K. Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods . 6th edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2017; Crowe, Sarah et al. “The Case Study Approach.” BMC Medical Research Methodology 11 (2011): doi: 10.1186/1471-2288-11-100; Yin, Robert K. Case Study Research: Design and Methods . 4th edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publishing; 1994.

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the 5 best homework help websites (free and paid).

Other High School , General Education

Listen: we know homework isn’t fun, but it is a good way to reinforce the ideas and concepts you’ve learned in class. But what if you’re really struggling with your homework assignments?

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The basics of homework help websites
The cost of homework help websites
The five best homework websites out there
The pros and cons of using these websites for homework help
The line between “learning” and “cheating” when using online homework help
Tips for getting the most out of a homework help website

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What Makes a Homework Help Site Worth Using

Most of the best sites allow users to ask questions and then provide an answer (or multiple possible answers) and explanation in seconds. In some instances, you can even send a photo of a particular assignment or problem instead of typing the whole thing out!

Homework help sites also offer more than just help answering homework questions. Common services provided are Q&A with experts, educational videos, lectures, practice tests and quizzes, learning modules, math solving tools, and proofreading help. Homework help sites can also provide textbook solutions (i.e. answers to problems in tons of different textbooks your school might be using), one-on-one tutoring, and peer-to-peer platforms that allow you to discuss subjects you’re learning about with your fellow students.

And best of all, nearly all of them offer their services 24/7, including tutoring!

What You Should Should Look Out For

When it comes to homework help, there are lots–and we mean lots –of scam sites out there willing to prey on desperate students. Before you sign up for any service, make sure you read reviews to ensure you’re working with a legitimate company.

A word to the wise: the more a company advertises help that veers into the territory of cheating, the more likely it is to be a scam. The best homework help websites are going to help you learn the concepts you’ll need to successfully complete your homework on your own. (We’ll go over the difference between “homework help” and “cheating” a little later!)

You don't need a golden piggy bank to use homework help websites. Some provide low or no cost help for students like you!

How Expensive Are the Best Homework Help Websites?

First of all, just because a homework help site costs money doesn’t mean it’s a good service. Likewise, just because a homework help website is free doesn’t mean the help isn’t high quality. To find the best websites, you have to take a close look at the quality and types of information they provide!

When it comes to paid homework help services, the prices vary pretty widely depending on the amount of services you want to subscribe to. Subscriptions can cost anywhere from $2 to $150 dollars per month, with the most expensive services offering several hours of one-on-one tutoring with a subject expert per month.

The 5 Best Homework Help Websites

So, what is the best homework help website you can use? The answer is that it depends on what you need help with.

The best homework help websites are the ones that are reliable and help you learn the material. They don’t just provide answers to homework questions–they actually help you learn the material.

That’s why we’ve broken down our favorite websites into categories based on who they’re best for . For instance, the best website for people struggling with math might not work for someone who needs a little extra help with science, and vice versa.

Keep reading to find the best homework help website for you!

Best Free Homework Help Site: Khan Academy

Price: Free!
Best for: Practicing tough material

Not only is Khan Academy free, but it’s full of information and can be personalized to suit your needs. When you set up your account , you choose which courses you need to study, and Khan Academy sets up a personal dashboard of instructional videos, practice exercises, and quizzes –with both correct and incorrect answer explanations–so you can learn at your own pace.

As an added bonus, it covers more course topics than many other homework help sites, including several AP classes.

Runner Up: Brainly.com offers a free service that allows you to type in questions and get answers and explanations from experts. The downside is that you’re limited to two answers per question and have to watch ads.

Best Paid Homework Help Site: Chegg

Price: $14.95 to $19.95 per month
Best for: 24/7 homework assistance

This service has three main parts . The first is Chegg Study, which includes textbook solutions, Q&A with subject experts, flashcards, video explanations, a math solver, and writing help. The resources are thorough, and reviewers state that Chegg answers homework questions quickly and accurately no matter when you submit them.

Chegg also offers textbook rentals for students who need access to textbooks outside of their classroom. Finally, Chegg offers Internship and Career Advice for students who are preparing to graduate and may need a little extra help with the transition out of high school.

Another great feature Chegg provides is a selection of free articles geared towards helping with general life skills, like coping with stress and saving money. Chegg’s learning modules are comprehensive, and they feature solutions to the problems in tons of different textbooks in a wide variety of subjects.

Runner Up: Bartleby offers basically the same services as Chegg for $14.99 per month. The reason it didn’t rank as the best is based on customer reviews that say user questions aren’t answered quite as quickly on this site as on Chegg. Otherwise, this is also a solid choice!

Best Site for Math Homework Help: Photomath

Price: Free (or $59.99 per year for premium services)
Best for: Explaining solutions to math problems

This site allows you to t ake a picture of a math problem, and instantly pulls up a step-by-step solution, as well as a detailed explanation of the concept. Photomath also includes animated videos that break down mathematical concepts to help you better understand and remember them.

The basic service is free, but for an additional fee you can get extra study tools and learn additional strategies for solving common math problems.

Runner Up: KhanAcademy offers in-depth tutorials that cover complex math topics for free, but you won’t get the same tailored help (and answers!) that Photomath offers.

Best Site for English Homework Help: Princeton Review Academic Tutoring

Price: $40 to $153 per month, depending on how many hours of tutoring you want
Best for: Comprehensive and personalized reading and writing help

While sites like Grammarly and Sparknotes help you by either proofreading what you write via an algorithm or providing book summaries, Princeton Review’s tutors provide in-depth help with vocabulary, literature, essay writing and development, proofreading, and reading comprehension. And unlike other services, you’ll have the chance to work with a real person to get help.

The best part is that you can get on-demand English (and ESL) tutoring from experts 24/7. That means you can get help whenever you need it, even if you’re pulling an all-nighter!

This is by far the most expensive homework site on this list, so you’ll need to really think about what you need out of a homework help website before you commit. One added benefit is that the subscription covers over 80 other subjects, including AP classes, which can make it a good value if you need lots of help!

Best Site for STEM Homework Help: Studypool

Best for: Science homework help
Price: Varies; you’ll pay for each question you submit

When it comes to science homework help, there aren’t a ton of great resources out there. The best of the bunch is Studypool, and while it has great reviews, there are some downsides as well.

Let’s start with the good stuff. Studypool offers an interesting twist on the homework help formula. After you create a free account, you can submit your homework help questions, and tutors will submit bids to answer your questions. You’ll be able to select the tutor–and price point–that works for you, then you’ll pay to have your homework question answered. You can also pay a small fee to access notes, lectures, and other documents that top tutors have uploaded.

The downside to Studypool is that the pricing is not transparent . There’s no way to plan for how much your homework help will cost, especially if you have lots of questions! Additionally, it’s not clear how tutors are selected, so you’ll need to be cautious when you choose who you’d like to answer your homework questions.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Homework Help Sites?

Homework help websites can be a great resource if you’re struggling in a subject, or even if you just want to make sure that you’re really learning and understanding topics and ideas that you’re interested in. But, there are some possible drawbacks if you don’t use these sites responsibly.

We’ll go over the good–and the not-so-good–aspects of getting online homework help below.

3 Pros of Using Homework Help Websites

First, let’s take a look at the benefits.

#1: Better Grades Beyond Homework

This is a big one! Getting outside help with your studies can improve your understanding of concepts that you’re learning, which translates into better grades when you take tests or write essays.

Remember: homework is designed to help reinforce the concepts you learned in class. If you just get easy answers without learning the material behind the problems, you may not have the tools you need to be successful on your class exams…or even standardized tests you’ll need to take for college.

#2: Convenience

One of the main reasons that online homework help is appealing is because it’s flexible and convenient. You don’t have to go to a specific tutoring center while they’re open or stay after school to speak with your teacher. Instead, you can access helpful resources wherever you can access the internet, whenever you need them.

This is especially true if you tend to study at off hours because of your extracurriculars, work schedule, or family obligations. Sites that offer 24/7 tutoring can give you the extra help you need if you can’t access the free resources that are available at your school.

#3: Variety

Not everyone learns the same way. Maybe you’re more of a visual learner, but your teacher mostly does lectures. Or maybe you learn best by listening and taking notes, but you’re expected to learn something just from reading the textbook .

One of the best things about online homework help is that it comes in a variety of forms. The best homework help sites offer resources for all types of learners, including videos, practice activities, and even one-on-one discussions with real-life experts.

This variety can also be a good thing if you just don’t really resonate with the way a concept is being explained (looking at you, math textbooks!).

Not so fast. There are cons to homework help websites, too. Get to know them below!

3 Cons of Using Homework Help Websites

Now, let’s take a look at the drawbacks of online homework help.

#1: Unreliable Info

This can be a real problem. In addition to all the really good homework help sites, there are a whole lot of disreputable or unreliable sites out there. The fact of the matter is that some homework help sites don’t necessarily hire people who are experts in the subjects they’re talking about. In those cases, you may not be getting the accurate, up-to-date, and thorough information you need.

Additionally, even the great sites may not be able to answer all of your homework questions. This is especially true if the site uses an algorithm or chatbot to help students…or if you’re enrolled in an advanced or college-level course. In these cases, working with your teacher or school-provided tutors are probably your best option.

#2: No Clarification

This depends on the service you use, of course. But the majority of them provide free or low-cost help through pre-recorded videos. Watching videos or reading info online can definitely help you with your homework… but you can’t ask questions or get immediate feedback if you need it .

#3: Potential For Scamming

Like we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of homework help websites out there, and lots of them are scams. The review comments we read covered everything from outdated or wrong information, to misleading claims about the help provided, to not allowing people to cancel their service after signing up.

No matter which site you choose to use, make sure you research and read reviews before you sign up–especially if it’s a paid service!

When Does “Help” Become “Cheating”?

Admittedly, whether using homework help websites constitutes cheating is a bit of a grey area. For instance, is it “help” when a friend reads your essay for history class and corrects your grammar, or is it “cheating”? The truth is, not everyone agrees on when “help” crosses the line into “cheating .” When in doubt, it can be a good idea to check with your teacher to see what they think about a particular type of help you want to get.

That said, a general rule of thumb to keep in mind is to make sure that the assignment you turn in for credit is authentically yours . It needs to demonstrate your own thoughts and your own current abilities. Remember: the point of every homework assignment is to 1) help you learn something, and 2) show what you’ve learned.

So if a service answers questions or writes essays for you, there’s a good chance using it constitutes cheating.

Here’s an example that might help clarify the difference for you. Brainstorming essay ideas with others or looking online for inspiration is “help” as long as you write the essay yourself. Having someone read it and give you feedback about what you need to change is also help, provided you’re the one that makes the changes later.

But copying all or part of an essay you find online or having someone write (or rewrite) the whole thing for you would be “cheating.” The same is true for other subjects. Ultimately, if you’re not generating your own work or your own answers, it’s probably cheating.

5 Tips for Finding the Best Homework Help Websites for You

Now that you know some of our favorite homework help websites, free and paid, you can start doing some additional research on your own to decide which services might work best for you! Here are some top tips for choosing a homework help website.

Tip 1: Decide How You Learn Best

Before you decide which site or sites you’re going to use for homework help, y ou should figure out what kind of learning style works for you the most. Are you a visual learner? Then choose a site that uses lots of videos to help explain concepts. If you know you learn best by actually doing tasks, choose a site that provides lots of practice exercises.

Tip 2: Determine Which Subjects You Need Help With

Just because a homework help site is good overall doesn’t mean that it’s equally good for every subject. If you only need help in math, choose a site that specializes in that area. But if history is where you’re struggling, a site that specializes in math won’t be much help. So make sure to choose a site that you know provides high-quality help in the areas you need it most.

Tip 3: Decide How Much One-On-One Help You Need

This is really about cost-effectiveness. If you learn well on your own by reading and watching videos, a free site like Khan Academy is a good choice. But if you need actual tutoring, or to be able to ask questions and get personalized answers from experts, a paid site that provides that kind of service may be a better option.

Tip 4: Set a Budget

If you decide you want to go with a paid homework help website, set a budget first . The prices for sites vary wildly, and the cost to use them can add up quick.

Tip 5: Read the Reviews

Finally, it’s always a good idea to read actual reviews written by the people using these homework sites. You’ll learn the good, the bad, and the ugly of what the users’ experiences have been. This is especially true if you intend to subscribe to a paid service. You’ll want to make sure that users think it’s worth the price overall!

What’s Next?

If you want to get good grades on your homework, it’s a good idea to learn how to tackle it strategically. Our expert tips will help you get the most out of each assignment…and boost your grades in the process.

Doing well on homework assignments is just one part of getting good grades. We’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting great grades in high school in this article.

Of course, test grades can make or break your GPA, too. Here are 17 expert tips that’ll help you get the most out of your study prep before you take an exam.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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SOCW6520: Self-Assessment Assignment Solution

Self-assessment assignment, learning resources, required readings.

Birkenmaier, J., & Berg-Weger, M. (2018).Â The practicum companion for social work: Integrating class and fieldwork Â (4th ed.). New York, NY: Pearson. Chapter 1, â€œGetting Started on Your Social Work Practice Careerâ€ (pp. 5â€“32) Chapter 2, â€œSocialization into the Social Work Professionâ€ (pp. 34-61)

Gelman, C. R., Fernandez, P., Hausman, N., Miller, S., & Weiner, M. (2007). Challenging endings: First year MSW internsâ€™ experience with forced termination and discussion points for supervisory guidance.Â Clinical Social Work Journal, Â 35 (2), 79â€“90. Don't use plagiarized sources. Get Your Custom Essay on SOCW6520: Self-Assessment Assignment Solution Just from $13/Page Order Essay

Miller, S. E., Tice, C. J., & Harnek Hall, D. M. (2008). The generalist model: Where do the micro and macro converge? Advances in Social Work, 9(2), 79â€“90. Retrieved from http://journals.iupui.edu/index.php/advancesinsocialwork/article/view/203/198

Wayne, J., Bogo, M., & Raskin, M. (2010). Field education as the signature pedagogy of social work education. Â Journal of Social Work Education, 46 (3), 327â€“339.

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Laureate Education. (Producer). (2013g).Â The role of the intern Â [Audio file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu Note:Â Â This audio introduction is located in the “Introduction and Objectives” section. The approximate length of this media piece is 1 minute.

The ability to demonstrate social work practice skills is a key component of any social work field education experience. As you demonstrate social work practice skills in your field education experience, you will develop your professional identity as a future social worker.

For this Assignment (Self-Assessment), reflect on your personal and professional goals or objectives that you hope to achieve by participating in this course.

The Assignment (1â€“2 pages):

Identify and describe your personal professional goals and objectives within the parameters of the field education experience.
Explain how your personal professional goals and objectives that you identified might be reflected in your agency learning agreement.

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Solution-Focused Approach
A. The First Solution-Focused Session: There are two functions that are accomplished simultaneously in the first solution- focused session: development of an initial goal and initiation of the solution building process. Solution-focused therapists use six questions that have been developed collaboratively with clients.
Strengths-Based Approach in Social Work: 6 Examples & Tools
3. Local area coordination (LAC) LAC is a strengths-based approach to social work that focuses on relationship building and developing community networks (The Local Area Coordination Network, 2019). The approach aims to provide person-centered services that are co-created with local communities.
13 Social Work Methods & Interventions for Helping Others
Collecting data and forming a picture help social workers understand the situation better. Preliminary analysis includes interpreting the data and testing out "thoughts and hunches" (Parker, 2013, p. 314). Deeper analysis and shared negotiation are required following testing to put together an interpretation.
What is Case Management in Social Work: A Complete Guide
Software for social work case management can be a valuable tool for social workers of all experience levels. Sumac Health & Social Services Software is a comprehensive solution that helps social workers with all aspects of case management, from client intake to service tracking, appointment scheduling, and reporting.
Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Assignments
For a case analysis assignment, your professor will often ask you to examine solutions or recommended courses of action based solely on facts and information from the case. Case study can be a person, place, object, issue, event, condition, or phenomenon; a case analysis is a carefully constructed synopsis of events, situations, and behaviors .
Solved Subject: Social Work
Your solution's ready to go! Our expert help has broken down your problem into an easy-to-learn solution you can count on. ... Question: Subject: Social Work - Working with individuals and families Hello, I need some help for a social work assignment. Please see the information in the uploaded picture. Please help me with question 1D. The ...
PDF Social Work Assessment Questions
These sample questions are based upon the five key categories of the System model, which covers the areas of: • Situation. • Safety. • Survival/other needs. • Supports/strengths. • Short-term or crisis. Use open-ended questions to invite more detailed responses. Open-Ended vs. Close-Ended Questions.
Solution Focused Therapy: Key Principles and Case Example
Solution Focused Therapy is an evidence-based practice you may wish to add to your clinical toolkit. As per Professor Krause, it is "useful for the "resistant" client/system," and is used in "every modality; in multiple settings; and with all presenting problems.". It is also equal in efficacy to motivational interviewing.
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Best Site for Math Homework Help: Photomath. Price: Free (or $59.99 per year for premium services) Best for: Explaining solutions to math problems. This site allows you to take a picture of a math problem, and instantly pulls up a step-by-step solution, as well as a detailed explanation of the concept.
Relationship-based practice: emergent themes in social work literature
Key points. • There are compelling philosophical, policy and practice reasons to put relationships at the heart of social work. • The importance of relationships is increasingly recognised in 'people work' but especially in social work and social care, across all domains of practice. • Effective relationships are central to successful ...
SOCW6520: Self-Assessment Assignment Solution
As you demonstrate social work practice skills in your field education experience, you will develop your professional identity as a future social worker. For this Assignment (Self-Assessment), reflect on your personal and professional goals or objectives that you hope to achieve by participating in this course. The Assignment (1â€"2 pages):
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Best Social Work Genogram Guide with Free Template
One genogram social work example might use 10 different emotional relationship lines, while another might use just 3. The point is that the genogram template social workers use is customizable. Once you learn the basics, you can adjust the shapes and lines you use as you like.