WK2Assgn+Jackson, T
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Jan 9, 2024
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Week 2 Assignment: Hernandez Family
Tala Jackson
Master of Social Work
Walden University
SOCW 6121: Advanced Social Work Practice
Dr. Slade
December 10, 2023
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Using theory in family therapy is essential as it provides a structured framework that aids
social workers in comprehending, assessing, and effectively intervening in the complex
dynamics present within families. Theories offer guiding principles and models that enable
professionals to understand the intricacies of family interactions, roles, communication patterns,
and developmental stages, ultimately assisting in formulating tailored treatment plans that
address the unique needs of each family.
The application of Systems Theory to understand the Hernandez family involves
perceiving the family as a dynamic system where the behaviors, actions, and relationships of
each member significantly influence the functioning of the whole. Applying this perspective
allows for an exploration of the family's interactions and interdependencies. For instance,
identifying power struggles or communication breakdowns stemming from intergenerational
patterns provides insight into how issues persist within the family system and affect individual
members' well-being (Toseland, 2017).
Incorporating a Developmental Perspective in assessing the Hernandez family entails
recognizing and understanding the stages of family development and individual growth (Van
Hook, 2019). This perspective involves examining how family life cycle stages influence
behaviors, roles, and relationships within the family unit (Toseland, 2017). Understanding
developmental challenges at specific life cycle stages, such as adolescence or mid-life
transitions, informs the assessment by highlighting potential areas of stress or conflicts that
require intervention.
Choosing a validated assessment tool, such as the Genogram from the Van Hook chapter,
proves invaluable in assessing the Hernandez family's structure, relationships, and
intergenerational patterns. A Genogram visually represents family relationships and history,
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providing a comprehensive view of recurring themes, conflicts, and strengths across generations.
By analyzing the Genogram data, social workers can identify family dynamics, roles, and
potential sources of resilience or stress within the Hernandez family (Rasheed, et al., 2010).
The assessment results obtained from the Genogram and other selected tools serve as a
foundational element for constructing the treatment plan. For instance, if the Genogram
highlights communication breakdowns across generations, the treatment plan might incorporate
family therapy sessions aimed at enhancing communication skills and resolving conflicts
(Rasheed, et al., 2010). Alternatively, if it identifies a history of trauma impacting current family
dynamics, the plan may integrate trauma-informed therapy techniques to address these
underlying issues.
Moreover, the assessment outcomes inform the formulation of interventions tailored to
address the unique dynamics and needs of the Hernandez family. By identifying both strengths
and areas of concern within the family system, the treatment plan can focus on leveraging
existing resources while addressing problematic patterns or stressors. This approach ensures that
interventions are specific, relevant, and targeted, increasing the likelihood of fostering positive
change within the Hernandez family system.
Theory-driven assessments and validated tools provide social workers with a
comprehensive understanding of family dynamics and facilitate the creation of effective
treatment plans. By utilizing Systems Theory and a Developmental Perspective alongside
validated assessment tools like the Genogram, professionals can better understand, assess, and
intervene in complex family systems, thereby promoting healthier relationships and facilitating
positive changes within families like the Hernandez’s.
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References:
Van Hook, M. P. (2019).
Assessment of families.
Download Assessment of families.
In
Social
work practice with families: A resiliency-based approach
(3rd ed., pp. 64–106). Oxford
University Press.
Rasheed, J. M., Rasheed, M. N., & Marley, J. A. (2010).
The ecology of families: A
systems/developmental perspective.
Download The ecology of families: A
systems/developmental perspective.
In
Family therapy: Models and techniques
(pp. 45–
81). Sage.
Toseland, R. W., & Rivas, R. F. (2017).
An introduction to group work practice
(8th ed.).
Pearson.