Students will become aware of societal values which influence social welfare policy and how ultimately values impact on program development and service delivery. Students will become aware of the ethical obligation of all social workers to influence policy development through organizational or administrative advocacy, and social or political action. Students will appreciate the strengths perspective towards policy development and appreciate full inclusion and empowerment of client groups in policy development to promote social and economic justice. A systems approach provides the basic framework for understanding the generalist practice perspective and planning interventions with multiple systems. Assessments and interventions must address both intrapsychic and environmental strengths and stressors.
Generalist practice involves assessments and interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
Practice is based on the problem solving process and knowledge, skills, and values which are applicable across settings with diverse populations and in a variety of problem areas. Critical analysis of social problems is inherent and results in both practice and policy responses. Empirical research provides a solid foundation for both education and practice and generalist practitioners are expected to participate in practice evaluation activities. Generalist practice often requires the social worker to function in multiple roles depending on the needs of the client system. This course supports all eight principles, but has a primary focus on principle 3,5,6, and 7.