SOCW-2002-1: Week 3 Discussion: Why Use Theory?
Week 3: Why Use Theory?
Imagine that you are a social worker having an initial interaction with a client. The client is clearly in crisis. He has been using drugs regularly and has spiraled into some very risky behaviors. Throughout your conversation with him, you are thinking about why he chose to use drugs, why the drug use has increased so drastically, and why it has expanded into additional risky behaviors. Theories can help answer the various “whys” associated with this client’s behavior.
In this Discussion, you examine foundational theories that can guide your professional practice in similar situations.
To prepare:
- Review the Learning Resources on the use of theory in social work practice.
- Consider the purpose of theory for social workers and the profession as a whole.
- Select one theory from the resources that you find interesting.
- Explain why professional social workers need to use theory. In your explanation, connect theory to professionalism and the social work role. Then, identify one theory used in social work. Describe the theory and explain why it is of interest to you.
Tutorial for Why Use Theory?
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