Analysis of Theory Worksheet
Use this worksheet to help you apply a theory as a lens to the case study for your assignments. Fill in the column on the right with all applicable information, and then consider it a reference for how to apply the theory. You must submit this worksheet, where indicated, in applicable assignments. Then you will compile the worksheet for your Theories Study Guide (that you can use for the licensure exam) at the end of the course.
Name of theory |
Problem-solving model |
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Author or founder |
Helen Perlman |
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Historical origin of theory |
Founded on Functionalist theory |
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Basic assumptions |
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Underlying assumptions |
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Key concepts |
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Foci/unit of analysis |
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Philosophical or conceptual framework |
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Strengths of theory |
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Limitations of theory |
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Common criticisms |
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When and with whom it would be appropriate to use the theory/model |
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Consistency of theory/model with social work principles |
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Identification of goodness of fit with ethical principles |
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Ways in which theory/model informs research methods |
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Implications for social work practice |
Comparing Individual-Related and Structural/Cultural-Related Theories
All theories, more or less, can be dissected into different dimensions. In other words, all theories will tell you something about the focus or unit of analysis. It will identify the major or key concepts. It will also point to the definition and the cause of the problem. This would then guide how the social worker assesses and intervenes because the theory will also articulate the role of the social worker and how change occurs.
Use this handout for the Week 2 Discussion. Select a theory that focuses on the individual and a theory that focuses on the structural or cultural level. Fill out the table to help you complete your Discussion.
Individual-Related Theory |
Structural/Cultural- Related Theory |
Name of theory |
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Name of theorist |
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Focus or unit of analysis |
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Key concepts or terms |
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Explanation of the cause of the problem |
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Explanation of how change occurs or how client improves |
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Appropriate goals for clients |
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Role of the social worker |
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Focal point in assessment |
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Focal point in interventions |
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Specific practice intervention strategies |
Worksheet: Dissecting a Theory and Its Application to a Case Study
Most theories can be dissected and analyzed. All theories will tell you something about their focus or unit of analysis. A theory will identify its major or key concepts. It will also point to the definition of the problem and its cause. This then guides how the social worker assesses and intervenes, because the theory will also articulate the role of the social worker and how change occurs.
Basic Assumptions of the Theory Directions: For each section, respond in 2 to 3 sentences to the following prompts. Where relevant, provide citations to support your claims. |
Name of theory
System Theory |
Name of theorist |
What are the major assumptions of the theory? |
What are the theory’s key concepts? |
What is the theory’s focus or unit of analysis? |
What is the theory’s overall explanation for the cause of problems? |
Analysis of Theory Worksheet
Use this worksheet to help you apply a theory as a lens to the case study for your assignments. Fill in the column on the right with all applicable information, and then consider it a reference for how to apply the theory. You must submit this worksheet, where indicated, in applicable assignments. Then you will compile the worksheet for your Theories Study Guide (that you can use for the licensure exam) at the end of the course.
Crisis Theory |
Analysis of Theory Worksheet
Use this worksheet to help you apply a theory as a lens to the case study for your assignments. Fill in the column on the right with all applicable information, and then consider it a reference for how to apply the theory. You must submit this worksheet, where indicated, in applicable assignments. Then you will compile the worksheet for your Theories Study Guide (that you can use for the licensure exam) at the end of the course.
Resilience Theory |
Analysis of Theory Worksheet
Use this worksheet to help you apply a theory as a lens to the case study for your assignments. Fill in the column on the right with all applicable information, and then consider it a reference for how to apply the theory. You must submit this worksheet, where indicated, in applicable assignments. Then you will compile the worksheet for your Theories Study Guide (that you can use for the licensure exam) at the end of the course.
Cognitive Behavioral Theory |
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