Monday, January 27, 2020
Effective Social Work Approaches
Effective Social Work Approaches To practice without a theory is to sail an uncharted sea; theory without practice is not to set sail at all Susser 1968 cited in Lishman, 2005 pg 87. Therefore, this essay uses the task centred approach and the solution focused therapy to explain what is happening in the Banks family and how it affects Mark. It will predict Marks future behaviour and it will suggest a plan of actions for intervention in order to make a difference in Marks life. The problems identified in the banks family are; Marks bullying behaviours, both at school and at home, his failure to form relationships with his counterparts, and lack of progress in his education. The essay will discuss the similarities and differences in the identified theories. It will also investigate the advantages and disadvantages of each of the theories. At the same time, the essay will explain how the concept of the anti discriminatory practice can be employed to underpin the interventions whilst using the identified theories. Theoretically, Social work is influenced by the relationship between theory and practice from different perspectives in meeting the clients unique needs in a desired situation and at a particular period of time (Coulshed, 1988). Again, applying theory to practice involves different schools of thought whereas practitioner-client relationship maybe a difficult subject (Taylor and Devine, 1993). However the mandate here is to explain two major theories or approaches but highlights on a third is necessary. Firstly, Solution focused approach developed by Ericksons (1963) and De Shazer (1972) at the therapy centre in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The theory is regarded as a positive solution building approach focusing on the client. Clearly the aim is to explore the principles of anti-oppressive practice and involving the client in finding a solution to their problems. This approach does not focus on the past but what is happening in the present and future. It is focusing on two important issues, supporting clients to preferably explore their own future and taking into consideration when, where, with whom and how is it all happening to reach the desired outcomes in a shortest route. The features of solution based approach is to keep the client at the centre of their activity and encouraging them to bring about problems that need attention, furthermore, move from the problems to make slight changes in their behaviour and make some improvements. Nevertheless, it is assumed that clients feel part of their problems. The key concept of this approach is that focus is based upon the here and know with positive thinking and avoiding pre-judgmental. Above all solution based approach has no time limit as it tries to move from the centre to where clients can feel happier by reducing the problems step by step. In another of school of thought, task-centred approach has been considered as a structured way of working with clients in a time limit framework. The most important part of the task-centred approach is partnership and empowerment; this involves two or more people working with a common purpose. Moreover, this theory builds on clients strength and avoids talking about their faults by providing the necessary help they need. According to coulshed (1988), those trying to bring about models for ethnic-sensitive practice favour task-centred approach that promotes anti-oppressive practice (Doel and marsh, 1992). Task centred is unique in that it breaks down the problems into small manageable components, it involves the social worker and the service user identifying the main problem(s) and then working out how to reformulate them in to easily manageable tasks. After the tasks have been agreed the next step is to divided them between the social work and the service user and then decide who is going to work on which task and over what period of time. Using this approach the social worker and service user look very closely at the presenting problem(s) and reformulating them into a range of small practical tasks. The task centred approach fits together well with anti discriminatory practice because it encourages the social worker to do what they do best by bring their expertise into the relationship and work alongside the service user. Okitikpi et al, (2010) argues that the core aspects of the task centered approach that include working with partnership, collaboration, service users strengths, building on confidence, systematic and responsive communication are the same core elements that characterise ADP. Task-centred approach is seen to be effective with interpersonal concerns like those of mark. (Ramos and Tolson 2008 cited in Hepworth 2010 pg 379) Says that this theory is, incompatible with mandated clients who refuse help or are unable to identify changes that they wish to change. By direct contrast, the third approach, Attachment theory by Bowlby (1973) which grew out of rejection of some aspects of psychoanalysis and childhood raring with no separation could have been used but it is not relevant in this case study. Examining the influence of the task-centre approach and the solution-focused therapy, there are similarities and differences which have to be highlighted. Firstly, the case scenario of the Banks family clearly indicates that there need to be an intervention process by using the task-centred approach or solution-focused approach. Ride and Epstein (1972) hypothesised on the task-centred approach as effective and more durable. Time-limit on the approach shows that changes could occur rapidly as all participants are motivated (Maslow, 1943). This involves eight areas of concern among which Behavioural problems, reactive emotional distress and difficulty in role performance are selected target problem areas. However, there are steps to be taken in task-centred approach: The first step is problem exploration, Agreement; second step is, formulating an objective, achieving the task(s), and finally terminations stage. To start with there were behavioural problems identified in the case of Mar k, like yelling, fighting and disruptive. But as required the focus here is to move from what is wrong to what is needed to be done. Similar to the task centred approach is the solution focused approach; it is action oriented and uses a number of strategic questions to find out the solution to a series of problems that the client has. (Trepper et al 2006) cited in Hepworth (2010. Pg. 356). When using TCA with minors like Mark, the tasks involved in this are that there is need to work with the parents and teachers in a collaborative and anti-oppressive way to solve the problems, discuss basic care needs interest in how to help Mark to do his work in class, and work on his tantrums and arguments, discuss with parents how to get Mark to interact with other children and make arrangements for Mark to visit his father in order to came him down. (Enos 2008) cited in Hepworth (2010. Pg. 357) argues that lack of mandated contact from a family member can cause fear, a sense of failure, concer ns about status and use the attitudinal weapons at their disposal may react with anger and a minimum refuse to cooperate. Marks parents need to reduce his inappropriate behaviour by developing skills to improve parent-child relationships for instance, listening and negotiating skills, teach Mark skills of approaching others, how to introduce himself, interact with others by engaging in conversations. In evaluating the two approaches in the scenario there are advantages and disadvantages. In the solution-focused therapy, Mark is the focus and his self esteem is promoted. The problem is the primary concern not the client. SFA offers a positive approach working with the service users. The emphasis of engaging the service user to talk about solutions not just problems is an empowering method. The commitment to service users empowerment, a focus on strengths and service users capacities towards improving their situations and reaching solutions is a significant contribution. In contrast, there is negative focus and there will be problem as poor communication skills will lead to poor practice by social workers. Some aspects of the SFA have been criticised for being directive in nature in particular the assessing of tasks and the emphasis on solutions. Research conducted by the family therapist using the approach revealed discrepancies between the clients experiences and the observations made by their therapists related to the outcomes, (Metcalf et al 1996) (Cited in Hepworth 2010 pg.406). Storm (1991) and Lipchik (1997) cited in Hepworth 2010 pg. 406) maintain as a result of their work the primary focus on adherence to solution was embarrassing to some clients. The positive trust of the approach prevents the service user from discussing their real problems and to avoid talking about their concerns. In the task-centred approach, the problem is the main concern not Mark. He is empowered, considering his self esteem and independence. The approach is short termed and time-limited. In contrast, there is lack of motivation in this approach, the underlying problem has not been addressed, there is tendency that social workers might force Mark through coaching as to complete tasks. Payne (1997) cited in Wilson et al (2008 pg371) suggests task centred approach may not be effective in situations where there are constant difficulties, where long-term psychological problems are the main issues or where users do not accept the right of the social worker or the agency to be involved. Reflecting in this case scenario it is seen that Ken comes from a dysfunctional family which made him spend most of his teenage life in the care of the local authority and this may have affected him psychologically and he may not want to cooperate with the social worker in order to make the approach effective. Doel and Marsh (1992) suggest the service users ability to think and reason is a key ingredient to the success of the approach. In those cases where social work is appropriate but where the reasoning is impaired such as people with considerable learning difficulties or great degree of confusion, task-centred work is often not possible in direct work with that person, (Doel and Marsh 1942 cited in Wilson et al 2008 pg 99). However in the case scenario all the family members are in sound mental state so the approach is suitable. A further disadvantage of task-centred is that where a wide range of problems is experienced, each of which interacts with other problems which threaten to over whelm the family the approach seems rather a weak response. It is argued that unless one is able to deal with problems on many fronts, the combination of these problems will continue to undermine the functioning of family members. For example if one family member has the capacity to reason, but when other members of the family are not prepared to engage in the same process and consistently undermine the efforts of the social worker and service user, the approach may not achieve much. In relation to the case scenario the approach will not be effective if Mark who has multiple problems refuses to cooperate. In conclusion effective social work practice is based on principles and the application of theories or approaches give to different explanations and lead to different practice (Howe, 1987). According to research in to service-users views of social work practice has highlighted that effective practice depends on the combination of good interpersonal skills and clear, organised practice. It is argued that when social work activities are clearly focused, problems clearly identified and specified goals set with service users, then studies produce positive results. This essay has looked at two approaches and how they can be used by a social worker to help engage the Banks family in order to get the necessary support to improve Marks behaviour problems.
Sunday, January 19, 2020
Panic Disorder Essay -- essays research papers fc
I. Introduction A.     Panic disorder brings on the fastest and most complex changes known in the human body. B.     My purpose today is to inform you on panic disorder. C.     It concerns you because 1/3 of all Americans have a panic attack by the time they’re adults, and 3 out of 4 don’t receive the treatment they need. D.     Today I will discuss†¦ 1.     Facts about panic disorder 2.     Symptoms 3.     Causes and risk factors 4.     Treatments II. Body A.     Facts about panic disorder 1.     Mimics some medical conditions causing years of misdiagnosis. Almost everyone who panics believes they have a serious physical illness and goes to 10 or more doctors until they are finally diagnosed. 2.     7.2% of all adults or 1 in 15 have panic disorder. 3.     1/3 of all Americans have at least one panic attack,  ¾ being women. 4.     It’s the most common emotional disorder, more common than alcohol abuse or depression. 5.     Often leads to other complications (i.e.: phobias, depression, and even suicide. ) a.     1 out of every 5 untreated sufferers attempt to end their life, never knowing there was treatment. 6.     Violent poisons or traumatic injuries have less effect on the body than a panic attack does. B.     Symptoms 1.     Panic attack- reaches maximum intensity within a minute or two of beginning and diminish slowly over 10 minutes to as long as several hours and occur as much as several times a day to several times a month and can occur in harmless situations and in a lot of cases, wakening you from sleep. a.     Raging heartbeat b.     Difficulty breathing, feeling as though you can’t get enough air c.     Dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea d.     Trembling, sweating, shaking e.     Choking, chest pains f.     Hot flashes or sudden chills g. &nb... ...ately in the first day or two of treatment. (Ex: Xanaz, Ativan, and Klonopin.) III. Conclusion A.     Today I have informed you on. a.     Important facts about panic disorder b.     Many of the symptoms c.     Causes and risk factors d.     Treatments B.     Today my purpose was to inform you on panic disorder and explain to you that 3 out of 4 people with Panic disorder are never treated. C.     Thank you for your time. Bibliography American Psychiatric Association. (1994). Mental Help Net- Information- Symptoms- Panic Disorder. Available: http://mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=568. (5/3/02). Anxiety and Panic Hub. (1998-2002). Anxiety and Panic Hub- anxiety attacks, panic attacks. Available: http://www.paems.com.au/about/anxdis/dissociation.html. (4/30/02). Anxiety/Panic Attack Resource Site. (1997-2002). Understanding Panic Disorder. Available: www.anxietypanic.com. (4/28/02). GlaxoSmithKline. (1997-2002). Paxil- Your Life Is Waiting. Available: http://www.paxil.com/. (4/27/02).
Saturday, January 11, 2020
Analysis of William Blake’s Garden of Love Essay
William Blake was an English poet and painter that lived from 1757 to 1827, but first acknowledged as a great writer after his death. He was fascinated by the bible, but against any organized religion. Some people believe he was homosexual because his poems often referred to that, but he was married and had kids for a time. He was against all the rules and empty norms Christianity had, and thought marriage had too many rules. Analysis The first two stanzas have a rhyme scheme of ABCB, but the last one is ABCD with an internal rhyme in the last line. All three stanzas are divided up in 4 lines each. The poet speaker talks about the past, where he went to the garden of love First stanza: â€Å"I went to the Garden of Love†The speaker says, â€Å"I went to the Garden of Love,†showing that he went to a place known as the â€Å"Garden of Love.†He has been there before, but this time he sees that someone has built a chapel. The chapel is taking place â€Å"on the green†where the speaker used to play. Playing shows he wants to be active and playful, and he is disturbed that someone has built a building that probably symbolizes the opposite of his desires. Instead of â€Å"play†the chapel represents stillness and quietness for worship. But this speaker does not want to worship; he wants to â€Å"play.†Second stanza: â€Å"And the gates of this Chapel were shut†The speaker notes that the â€Å"gates of this Chapel were shut.†The chapel would have a doorâ€â€not â€Å"gates.†And after, the speaker then claims that â€Å"over the door†was written, â€Å"Thou shalt not.†The speaker may not see any difference of â€Å"gates†and â€Å"door†to the chapel. He is already observing the â€Å"Garden of Love†with its gates/door shut. Third stanza: â€Å"And I saw it was filled with graves†Apparently, this other â€Å"garden of love,†to which he turned after he looked away from the chapel, is â€Å"filled with graves.†And there are â€Å"tombstones where flowers should be.†The speaker then sees â€Å"Priests in black gowns.†They are â€Å"walking their rounds / And binding with briars my joys and desires.†The contrast of chapel and garden, of door and gates, of tombstones and flowers, and briars and desires shows that everything has changed in a bad way. The last line indicates that his desires for example playing in the garden has been wrapped in briars, which Jesus also had on his head when he got crucified. Knowing about William Blake’s background I think the poem is about his hate to organized religion, especially Christianity. All of the â€Å"fun†in the religion has been taken away. Everything has rules, and the church threatens you to live a life without sins, or you will burn up in hell. Back then the church was very powerful, and some places ruled countries. William Blake was against religions having control in a country, and that is what I think he means with this poem.
Friday, January 3, 2020
Direct Proportion Definition
Definition: Direct proportion is the relationship between two variables when their ratio is equal to a constant value. Examples: The volume of an ideal gas is directly proportional to the absolute temperature of the gas (Charles Law)If you get paid by the hour, the more you work the more you will get paid. If you earn $15/hour and work 2 hours, you will earn $30 (Not including taxes, etc.) and if you work 4 hours, you will earn $60. The ratio of money earned to hours worked is 15 to 1 or $15/hour.
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