SOCW 6060 Case Study and Attachment Theory Discussion

Basic Assumptions of the Theory

Directions: For each section, respondin 2 to 3 sentences to the following prompts. Where relevant, provide citations to support your claims.

Name of theory: The theory to be used is called systems theory. This theory looks at the whole and how parts make the whole complete. Name of theorist: Karl Ludwig von BertalanyThe interaction of parts creates or forms the whole. There are many underlying concepts, modes and principles that are similar but evolved differently What are the major assumptions of the theory? The interaction of interrelated and interdependent parts creates the whole. Each part, although independent, relies on other parts to complete the system What are the theory’s key concepts? Systems theory assumes that the whole is composed of interrelated and interdependent parts or components that work to create the whole. These parts are similar but they evolved in different ways. What is the theory’sfocus or unit of analysis? The theory focuses on how one part affects the whole. In sociology, scholars look at how different systems affect the whole society.

 

 

What is the theory’s overall explanation for the cause of problems?According to systems theory, failure of one part to function may cause problems. Each component must work independently without affecting other parts for the system to be complete.   Application to a Case Study <Tiffany Bradley>

Directions: For each section, respond to the following prompts. Where relevant, provide citations to support your claims.

In 1 to 2 sentences, how does the theory define the client’s presenting problem?

Systems theory assumes that parts work independently to support the whole. Family systems theory states that dysfunctional families are caused by failure of members to do their parts, which presents Tiffany’s problem as caused by failure of her parents to perform their duties to the family (Saltzman et al., 2018).

In 1 to 2 sentences, how does the theory explain the cause of the client’s presenting problem?

Systems theory defines family as a system of emotionally connected members and each member functions as a component with unique roles and responsibilities. Tiffany’s problem was caused by lack of balance in the family because members did not play their parts to support the whole system, making the family dysfunctional.

In 1 to 2 sentences, how does the theory explain the role of the social worker for this client?

The theory states that failure of one family member to perform his duties will make the family dysfunctional. The role of social worker is to help family members and children  understand their specific roles in the family to avoid problems

 

 

In 1 to 2 sentences, what does the theory say about how this client will improve or how change will occur?

Using system theory, Tiffany can improve and experience change by working with other family members to understand the dynamics of their family, and how her behavior affects other members.

Using the theory, list 2 to 3 assessment questions to ask this client to explore the client’s goals and how they will get there.

1.       What is your birth order in the family?

2.       When your parents fail to provide security and food, how did that make you feel?

3.       How did you feel when your mother and father quarrel?

According to the theory, identify 2 to 3 specific practice intervention strategies for the client relative to the presenting problem.For each, explain in 1 sentence how it will help meet the client’s goals.

Structural intervention: Using this intervention, the therapist goal is to identify the structure of client family and re-organize it (Frey and Hunt, 2018).

Relationship education: This intervention aims to educate the client and his family members of family relations, interdependence, premarital education and family resources.

Based on the theory, list 2 to 3 outcomes when evaluating whether an intervention is effective.

1.       Effective and improved communication between family members

2.       Reduced family conflict and members acceptance of roles and responsibilities

What areone strength and onelimitation in using this theory for this client?

One key strength of family systems is that it allows identifying dysfunctions in families by looking at the behavior of an individual member. One of the main weaknesses of using this theory is that it pays too much attention to the family and not the individual.