Overview
The ability to critically analyze and articulate the scope and impact of complex social problems is essential for social workers. By applying theoretical frameworks, like Bronfenbrenner’s Model, and utilizing current scholarly research, social workers can gain deeper insights into systemic factors influencing these social issues. Moreover, understanding relevant social policies and adopting strengths perspective and social justice perspective, social workers can engage in effective advocacy and practice that promotes positive change at all levels.
Select ONE of the following social problems:
- Domestic violence
- Gender pay (wage) gap
- Child poverty
- Homelessness
- Opioid addiction
- Racial Inequality
Based on the social problem you have selected, address each of the following prompts in an essay of 1,500 – 2,000 words. Support your claims citing three to five peer-reviewed scholarly sources (published within the last 5 years)
- Construct a “statement of the problem.” Include summarizing the magnitude of the problem in the United States and from a Christian worldview.
- Use Bronfenbrenner’s “Bio-Socio-Ecological Model of Human Development” to explain how influences at each level of the ecological system have an impact on those affected by the selected social problem.
- Describe two relevant social policies that have an impact on individuals or families.
- Use a “strengths perspective” to explain how you might bring about positive change in a micro, mezzo, and macro practice setting for the selected social problem.
- Considering your selected social problem, use a “social justice perspective” to explain why it is important for social workers to become actively engaged in policy-advocacy work informed by research evidence.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.
This assignment is aligned to the following Social Work Competencies:
2: Advance Human Rights and Social, Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice 5: Engage in Policy Practice 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and communities.