Poverty is a major social problem in our society. Nearly 1 in 5 children live in poverty in the United States, with prevalence varying by region and state. This week, you will examine this important social issue and assess the different systems. As you read in Chapter 3, the human services field has a long history and value of addressing the needs of the poor in society. Now, imagine that you are a human services professional in a community nonprofit agency that provides case management services to a diverse demographic of low-income families. As a case manager, you apply ecological systems theory in your biopsychosocial-spiritual assessment and treatment planning with children and families. To prepare for the discussion, be sure you have completed the readings in this unit.
Please respond to the following:
In what ways could you advocate for families in poverty in this role, taking into consideration key concepts from ecological systems theory?
In particular, how could you help to positively impact the family member’s micro, mezzo, and macro systems to lessen the negative effects of poverty?
REFRENCES USED
Chapter 3: “The History of Advocacy in Human Services”
Web Resources:
Review the Overview of human services theories slides and visit the link below for information on child poverty policies:
Child poverty Children’s Defense Fund (2021).
How does “toxic stress” of poverty hurt the developing brain? PBS Newshour
Library Resources:
Read the following chapter from Social Work Theories in Action:
Chapter 1: “The Ecological Systems Metaphor in Australasia”
Read the following chapter from Immigrant and Refugee Children and Families: Culturally Responsive Practice
Chapter 15: “Advocacy for Immigrant and Refugee Children and Families”
Measuring religious and spiritual competence across helping professions: Previous efforts and future directions. Oxhandler & Pargament (2018).
