This course focuses on reciprocal relationships between human behavior and social environments. Content includes empirically based theories and knowledge that focus on the interactions between and among systems of all sizes, including individuals, groups, societies, and economic systems. Theories and knowledge of biological, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual development across the lifespan are critiqued, especially as they relate to at-risk populations. In addition, theories and knowledge about the range of social systems (individual, family, group, organizational, and community) in which people live are examined, including the ways social systems promote or deter people in maintaining or achieving health and well-being.

This course provides an initial opportunity to investigate the relationships among individual and collective social welfare and public policy in American society from a social work perspective, with emphasis placed on understanding these relationships in terms of social and economic justice. Particular attention is paid to acquisition of skills necessary to engage in policy advocacy and formulation consistent with social work values and ethics, fostering an appreciation for the roles played by social workers in the development of the American welfare state, and reviewing the history of the social work profession.

This course provides students with knowledge and skills related to the theory, research, and implications of child and adolescent maltreatment for child development and psychopathology. Course content is presented within the context of child welfare practice and social work with children and adolescents in public agencies and programs. Particular attention will be given to common psychological disorders that result from maltreatment and accompanying treatment issues. Issues related to individuals, families, groups, and communities are covered and attention is given to working with ethnic minorities, women, gays and lesbians, and persons with disabilities.

This advanced practice course emphasizes development of clinical skills. Students will refine their clinical skills, building on the research-based, nonspecific (common factors) components of therapeutic work (i.e., therapeutic alliance, empathy, goal consensus/collaboration, positive regard/affirmation, and genuineness) and specific factors (validated treatments). The course provides in-depth coverage of three empirically based models; Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy. Learning applications of techniques informed by these models provides opportunities to enhance professional use of self. The course examines similarities and differences among models and allows students to discern appropriate use of techniques, client populations, settings, and problem interactions. Students will develop competency in the ethical and strength-based use of these models.

As part of this course, all students will be required to participate in a mandatory Zoom session.