Ethnicity, racial, cultural and personal identity receive much attention in American culture. Many theories are emerging to describe identity development. All theories are rooted in underlying worldviews and assumptions. In this discussion you will explore the importance of understanding phenomenology, social constructionism and hermeneutics in the development and critique of theories.
Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:
Develop knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks to engage with clients and constituencies.
Develop knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and constituencies.
Resources
Textbook: Contemporary Human Behavior Theory: A Critical Perspective for Social Work
Instructions
Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
Read Chapter 11 of the textbook, Contemporary Human Behavior Theory: A Critical Perspective for Social Work.
Navigate to the threaded discussion below citing the workshop resources (respond to the following prompts with at least one paragraph each including in-text citations and references to the text):
Briefly define and describe the importance of phenomenology. Also, summarize the main differences between a positivist and constructionist view. How is understanding these ideas important for social workers?
Discuss the connections between postmodern thought and constructionism as explained in the chapter. How do you see these philosophies at work in culture or your community? Identify and explain a challenge they create.
What is hermeneutics and why is it important for you to consider as a social worker working with diverse populations, cultures, and ideas or when considering issues of bias, power or privilege?
Should meeting people where they are and understanding them as individuals in and from a particular culture and context mean disregarding ideas of objective truth or use of evidence-based practice? How can understanding phenomenology, ontology and hermeneutics help you navigate these tensions and your own values in practice?
Your initial post is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.
Read and respond to at least two of your classmates’ postings, as well as all instructor follow-up questions directed to you, by the end of the workshop.
Your postings should also:
Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking by providing evidence.
Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.
Provide clarification to classmates’ questions and provide insight into the discussion.
Be posted on two different days during the workshop.
Self-assess your initial post and responses using the rubric and make improvements as needed to meet expectations and ensure that your work fulfills all the requirements.
