Prac IV:Spec ScWk w/Families

Prerequisite: Matriculation in the MSW program or as an Advanced Standing student; must be taken concurrently with SCWK 593; or consent of program coordinator This practice course will present a theoretical analysis of family functioning and integrate this analysis with specialized social work practice with families. Broad definitions of “family” will be used, including extended families, unmarried couples, single parent families, gay or lesbian couples, adult siblings, “fictive kin” and other inclusive definitions. Models that have significantly contributed to social work practice with families are studied with a focus on the processes of engagement, assessment, case conceptualization, goal setting, intervention and evaluation. Theoretical approaches will be presented in order to help students understand family structure, communication patterns, and behavioral and coping repertoires. During this course, students will learn and practice the skills of effective, culturally competent specialized social work practice with families through participation in simulated demonstrations of family modalities.