41720333-Systems Theory and Attachment Theory

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1 A Comparative Analysis of Systems Theory and Attachment Theory in Understanding Human Behavior: Implications for Social Work Practice Name School of Social Work, SCWK320: Human Behavior and the Social Environment Professor Date

2 A Comparative Analysis of Systems Theory and Attachment Theory Social workers must have a solid understanding of human behavior to address the many impacts on individual and group behavior. According to Sharma & Gupta (2022), social workers must have a holistic understanding of them to care for and assist people effectively. The relationship between people and their social setting is understood using two distinct theoretical frameworks: Systems Theory and Attachment Theory. Such theories help explain why such people act differently under different conditions (Hooper, 2017). Attachment theory relates to emotional bonding that exists among people such as mother and child, or a husband and wife. On the other hand, systems theory approach views the family from a dynamic perspective arguing that an individual cannot act outside of the family system. Systems theory and attachment theory are some of the theories used in social work to help in explaining human behavior. This essay explores the fundamental ideas of systems theory and attachment theory, their practical applications in social work, and a comparative evaluation of both theories in comprehending human behavior. By examining these ideas, the essay hopes to draw attention to their importance to social work practice and how they affect an individual's ability to understand and deal with human behavior in various social circumstances. Systems Theory Systems theory is an interdisciplinary approach that can be applied in social work to understanding how systems act. Niklas Luhmann, a German sociologist, is one of the foremost theorists in systems theory and proposed a complex system theory called "autopoietic systems theory" (Petras, 2019). According to Luhmann's theory, systems self-organize, and it is critical to comprehend the system as a whole rather than just its component elements. Systems theory is crucial for investigating relations between people, the family, the community, and the numerous

3 determinants of human behavior in social work. Brady (2018) identifies some of Luhmann's ideas on the systems theory that may be appropriate for application in social work, such as systems, autopoietic systems, complexity, self-organization, and information. Systems theory in social work is essential because it allows the practitioners to see how various elements and environments interact and affect the individual. Consistency with Social Work Values System theories support social work values by emphasizing people's relationship with the surrounding environment. Baylor University, 2022, argues that the theory promotes a comprehensive approach to social work by factoring in the many social aspects of a victim's life, such as family, friends, school, employment, religion, economic status, education level, and background. Such an approach aligns with the notion that social workers' image of someone derives from their environment and that a given setting dictates health status. Perspectives on Health and Mental Illness The theory of systems serves as a basis for explaining the interdependence of persons in a group and what impact it has on a person's mental health and mental illness. It has been used in several areas, including therapy, mental health treatment pathways, and community psychiatry. For example, a study at the Hellenic Center of Mental Health and Research used a general system of theory for treatment pathways, highlighting the need for such integrated systems approaches to predict the effectiveness of such services (Katrakazas et al., 2020). Another piece focuses on the link between systems theory and community psychiatry, outlining a multifactorial approach of community mental health centers in dealing with mental health issues from a system perspective (Marmor, 2019). Systems theory in therapy is utilized to analyze emotions and motivations in relation to group dynamics, helping individuals and groups overcome the issues

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4 related to system dynamics (Katrakazas et al., 2020). Hence, systems theory provides an essential viewpoint for understanding and addressing mental health and mental illness in a more extensive system and group dynamics. Strengths and Weaknesses The strengths of systems theory lie in interdependence, adaptability, and the exchange of energy and resources between systems. Davies (2022) states that it involves people in their environment and gives a clear picture of scholars' and employees' work in various fields. One of the pitfalls of systems theory is that it assumes that control over any aspect of a system influences the whole system (Baylor University, 2022). Furthermore, specific models of systems theory, like functionalism theories, can also be challenging when dealing with problems such as racism, LGBTQ concerns, and poverty since the changes that stabilize society may seem to overlook critical social changes. Attachment Theory Attachment theory rests on the principle that secure attachments with responsive caregivers lay the foundation for healthy child development. Created by psychologist John Bowlby, it emphasizes the importance of early connections made by children with their parents or caregivers, which have long-lasting developmental effects throughout their lives. Bowlby defines attachment as a "lasting psychological connectedness between human beings" (Daneman, 2019). Extensive studies have been carried out on attachment theory and its application in developmental, personality, social, cognitive, neuroscience, and clinical psychology. Therefore, this theory is crucial to understanding human behavior and relationships throughout life (Simpson et al., 2020). John Bowlby is an essential theorist in attachment theory, and his

5 contributions have greatly helped us understand human attachments and their effects on social and psychological growth. Consistency with Social Work Values Attachment theory is a conceptualization developed by John Bowlby to understand the psychological bonding between people and its implications for how relationships evolve throughout life and the behavior of individuals towards others (Cherry, 2019). Attachment theory is consistent with social work values because it provides a framework for understanding human behavior and relationships. Social workers help clients in different challenging situations; therefore, they should understand human behavior and relationships. It is also worth noting that understanding attachment theory can help social workers support individuals by accepting them as they are, considering all the factors that influence their lives, and guiding them through these factors to become who they desire to be (Cherry, 2019). Willis Palmer (2020) notes that social workers require special training in attachment theory to classify and apply attachments in observation. Thus, attachment theory is consistent with social work's principles because it provides an all-embracing view of human relationships and behavior, which is vital for practice in the discipline. Perception of Health and Mental Disorders Research shows that attachment theory is a crucial aspect of understanding mental health and mental disorders. According to Mikulincer & Shaver (2021), attachment theory has been proven to provide a paradigm to study the psychological connection between people and their implications throughout life in developing interpersonal relations. There are numerous mental

6 problems associated with attachment insecurities, from mild negative affectivity to disorganizing and even paralyzing conditions. The theory has been used to understand illness behavior, proposing that illness activates the attachment system (Hunter & Maunder, 2021). People with secure attachment to close partners have health benefits associated with physiological stress processes. Strengths and Weaknesses Attachment theory's strengths include educating the importance of early relationships, developing a framework for understanding human behaviour, and influencing therapeutic approaches, such as Attachment-based Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (Jerrom, 2020). However, attachment theory exaggerates the importance placed on early experiences, which may overlook the significance of later relationships and events on attachment patterns. Comparative Analysis There are many ways in which Systems theory and Attachment theory align with the values of social work, which serve as its foundation. The two theories are important frameworks for understanding human behavior, relationships, and social systems, vital for social work practice. Integration in Social Work Practice Systems Theory focuses on the interdependence of individuals in their social settings while emphasizing the importance of considering the broader situation within which clients' problems should be analyzed. On the other hand, Attachment Theory deals with the effects of early relationships on emotional development and interpersonal relations (Hooper, 2017). Integrating the theories into social work enhances understanding of clients' experiences and the systems that influence their health.

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7 Key Concepts and Principles Systems Theory involves interconnected systems, feedback loops, and understanding systems as a whole rather than isolated parts. It is important to note that attachment theory emphasizes the significance of early attachment, internal working models, and how these relationships influence emotional regulation and behavior across the lifespan (Cherry, 2019). Case Studies Attachment theory and its importance to clinical work with abused children and adult survivors of child sexual abuse (Marmor, 2019). Mikulincer & Shaver (2021) examine the combination of attachment theory, family systems theory, and family-based treatment in the context of therapy with youth with disordered eating within family therapy. Critiques and Challenges Both theories provide insightful information, but social workers may find it challenging to put them into practice, mainly when there is a conflict between the expectations of the system and their relational training, as is the case with addiction services (Baylor University, 2022). The systems and attachment theories offer insightful frameworks for comprehending human behavior and relationships. These frameworks are consistent with the fundamental principles of social work, which include advancing social justice, upholding the worth and dignity of every person, and emphasizing the significance of interpersonal relationships in promoting well-being. A comprehensive strategy for addressing clients' needs within their social circumstances is made possible by integrating these ideas into social work practice. View of Health and Mental Illness Mental health and mental illness are also important when using the systems theory and attachment theory. According to O'Gorman (2021), systems theory serves as the basis for

8 understanding a person's mental health and mental disorder, considering the individual's social context, which is considered an ecosystem. It highlights the relationship between people's behaviors and environments and explores how linking many systems impacts behavior (O'Gorman, 2021). Attachment theory treats mental health as an essential component of the general functioning of human beings, and the quality of the first relationships has a significant effect on mental health. Positive outcomes in life emerge from secure attachments formed in infancy, whereas insecure attachments lead to mental health problems. SAMHSA's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services define mental health as one's emotional, psychological, and social well-being (O'Gorman, 2021). It determines how they think, feel, act, handle stress, and relate with others. It also plays a role in their decision-making. Mental illnesses entail anything that causes a change in an individual's thinking, behavior, or mood and is essential at every stage of life, from mild to severe. Mental health and mental illness is a state in black and white; hence, one must understand how such conditions can affect people's lives and require early support and intervention as soon as possible. Importance of Theories in Social Work Practice Social work practice theories are vital in helping understand why people behave in a certain way and how to address various issues. Social work theories allow social workers to analyze cases, understand clients, develop interventions, predict outcomes, and evaluate effects. Such theories aid in helping social workers withdraw personal biases, assumptions, and beliefs to pick out the most suitable intervention methods for their clients (Hooper, 2017). Some of the theories employed in social work include systems theory, attachment theory, conflict theory, social learning theory, psychosocial development theory, and family systems theory. Social

9 workers need to solve client issues using research-based methods. These theories provide a foundation for social workers to develop interventions and shape their work (Hooper, 2017). Therefore, understanding these theories can help social workers deal with mental health and essential employee and client problems. Knowledge from theories of social work helps define practices, understand people's behavior, and make interventions to better their lives. Conclusion Social work can also benefit from systems theory and attachment theory because both contribute to understanding human behavior. These theories become platforms for explaining people's dynamic relationships with their surroundings determining their physical and psychological health. Systems theory is about the broader social structures that affect individual development, while attachment theory underscores the significance of childhood relationships toward later growth. The two theories support social work values, such as promoting social justice, empowerment, and holistic well-being. Integrating these theories into practice will enable social workers to understand better the client's experience and how to improve the client's well- being and social functioning.

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10 References Baylor University. (2022). Social Work Theories https://onlinegrad.baylor.edu/resources/social- work-theories/ Brady, M.E. (2018). An Analysis of the Major Error Committed in Evaluating J. M. Keynes's General Theory from 1936-2018: The Claim, that Keynes was a Marshallian, Partial Equilibrium Theorist, Which Keynes, Himself, Completely Rejected in Chapter 21 of the General Theory in 1936. Philosophy & Methodology of Economics eJournal . Cherry, K. (2019). What is attachment theory: The importance of early emotional bonds. Psychology Today . Davies, L.(2022).What Is Systems Theory in Social Work? https://resources.noodle.com/articles/social-work-systems-theory/ Hooper, L. M. (2017). The application of attachment theory and family systems theory to the phenomena of parentification. The Family Journal , 15 (3), 217-223. Jerrom, C. (2020, October 8).Why training in attachment theory is key for social workers. WillisPalmer.https://www.willispalmer.com/why-training-in-attachment-theory-is-key- for-social-workers/ Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2021). An attachment perspective on psychopathology. World psychiatry : official journal of the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) , 11 (1), 11–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wpsyc.2012.01.003 O'Gorman, S. (2021). Attachment theory, family system theory, and the child presenting with significant behavioral concerns. Journal of Systemic Therapies , 31 (3), 1-16. Petras, J.F. (2019). Dependency and World System Theory. Latin American Perspectives, 8 , 148 - 155.

11 Daneman,, D., & Daneman, M. (2019). What has attachment theory got to do with diabetes care. Diabetes management, 2 , 85-87. Simpson, J.A., Rholes, W.S., Eller, J., & Paetzold, R.L. (2020). Major Principles of Attachment Theory.

41720333-Systems Theory and Attachment Theory

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