This paper is a chance for you to take an in-depth look at a practice theory of interest to you that is commonly used in social work. In your paper you should describe the theory’s
Generalist Practice 1
Assignment #2 – Theory Paper
Due: Week 11
Description: This paper is a chance for you to take an in-depth look at a practice theory of interest to you that is commonly used in social work. In your paper you should describe the theory’s main principles and how the theory can be used to help in social work practice settings. Approach this as if you are teaching me (the reader) about the theory.
Examples of practice theories/models/therapies: Cognitive behavioral theory (CBT), ecological systems theory, psychodynamic theory (drive theory, ego theory, object relations, etc.), crisis intervention theory, narrative therapy, solution focused therapy, task centered perspective, attachment theory, family systems theory.
1.) What does the theory say? (2-3 pages) – Describe the descriptive theory (what the theory proposes is the reasons for people’s problems) and the prescriptive theory (what they say you do to help and why they think it will help). This part is focused on teaching your reader about the theory. Included should be information on the key components that make up the theory, individuals who contributed to or influenced its development, and how (if at all) the therapeutic relationship is addressed.
2.) What does the research say? (2-3 pages) - Discuss what research says about the theory, including evidence that supports and critiques the theory.
3.) Discuss the theory’s fit with the field of social work (1-2 pages) – In class and some of our readings have touched on what makes a theory a good fit for social work. Discuss whether or not your chosen theory is a good fit with social work and why (support with research).
4.) Would you use this theory in your practice? (1-2 pages) – Discuss whether or not you would use this theory in your practice now that you have explored the theory and its research.
Writing Requirements – 7-10 pages of content plus title page and reference page.
Grading Rubric
|
Criterion/Points |
Below Expectations 1-5 |
Needs Improvement 6-10 |
Meets Expectations 11-15 |
Exceeds Expectations 16-20 |
SCORE |
|
Question #1: Cover
major components of the theory |
Does not address
question |
Response is
underdeveloped, lacks specifics, and is missing key concepts about the
theory. |
Response is
moderately developed, addresses specifics with identification of some key
concepts about the theory. |
Response sufficiently
addresses question, with thorough identification of key concepts about the
theory. |
|
|
Question #2:
Discussion of what research states about the theory. |
Does not address
question |
Response is
underdeveloped, lacks specifics, and is missing key information. |
Response is
moderately developed, addresses specifics with identification of some key information. |
Response provides thorough
review of the research with thorough identification of key information. |
|
|
Question #3: Theory’s
fit with social work. |
Does not address
question |
Response is
underdeveloped, lacks specifics, and is missing key information. |
Response is
moderately developed, addresses specifics with identification of some key
information. |
Response is
sufficiently developed with thorough identification of key information. |
|
|
Question #4: Use of
theory in practice/opinion. |
Does not address
question |
Response is underdeveloped,
lacks student’s critical thought about theory’s application/usefulness in
practice. |
Response is
moderately developed, student provides basic thoughts about theory’s
application/usefulness in practice. |
Response sufficiently
addresses question, student thoroughly shares thoughts about theory’s
application/usefulness in practice. |
|
|
Professional
Communication, Writing, and APA |
Paper has more than
10 spelling and/or grammar errors. OR more than 10 APA
errors; AND is conceptually
and/or logically unsound. |
Paper has 7-10
spelling and/or grammar errors; or 7-10 APA errors; AND lacks flow but is
not logically presented. |
Paper has 4-6
spelling and/or grammar errors; OR 4-6 APA errors; AND lacks flow, but
is conceptually sound. |
Paper has 0-1 spelling
and/or grammar errors; OR 0-1 APA errors; AND paper is
logically and conceptually sound |
|
|
Total |
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|
|
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