Systems Theory in Social Work: A Study

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Human Behavior and the Social Environment The first theory applicable to Maci Jones’ situation is the systems theory. As described by Michael Rothery (2008) systems theory is the concept that social workers use to understand the various structures molding the client into his or her current situation. Since family units have a systemic nature it is essential to assess the client’s environment because it determines their well being (Rothery, 2008). Even further, Rothery (2008) states that people are thoroughly dependent upon their social and physical world and therefore each system is sustaining and shaping one another. Systems can be comprised of anything influencing and shaping the client at the micro, mezzo, and macro level. Therefore, when …show more content…

In this theory there are eight stages of human development. The first stage is trust vs. mistrust and this phase is when the child develops a sense of security with his or her parents and the environment (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Based on the initial visit with the family they believe that Maci has completed this stage because both parents have agreed that she verbally confirms her affection, which leads her to trust them. Although the social worker has not seen Maci interact with her parents it is still questionable if Maci has completed this phase. Since she is being medically neglected it is probable that Maci is overly attached to each parent, which is a sign of neglect (EMSC, 2013). Therefore, if that is the case Maci has not completed the first phase. Stage two is autonomy vs. shame and doubt and this phase is when the child gains a sense of self-control and has the ability to do various activities for him or herself (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Because Maci has a chance to fail the first phase she will be unable to properly perform at this stage as well. Henderson & Thompson (2011) stated that in order to successfully complete a stage one has to master that stage. Currently, Maci is in the third stage titled initiative vs. guilt and during this phase Maci should have a confident sense of ingenuity instead of feeling remorseful because she cannot correctly perform a behavior …show more content…

A secure base is how the caregiver responds to the child’s needs, whether positively or negatively. When the child grows up with a positive secure base he/she is able to move into the exploratory system (Stalker & Hazelton, 2008). At this stage, the child should feel confident in their base feeling secure to venture into the environment. Even further, there is a fear/wariness system involved in the attachment theory (Stalker & Hazelton, 2008). This system is how the child responds to situations when their secure base is around. Lastly, is the internal working model, which is how the child views the world in addition to their relationships (Stalker & Hazelton, 2008). Carol Stalker and Rosemary Hazelton (2008) believed that attachment theory is appropriate for all clients especially those who experience maltreatment. Attachment theory supports the idea that psychological problems or disruptions are in congruence with early caregiving relationships; and based on the primary caregivers’ rapport with the child; he or she will develop a positive or negative pattern of attachment that will be present through adulthood if not rehabilitated (Stalker & Hazelton, 2008). Therefore, the primary goal of the attachment theory is to provide the child with a secure base to appropriately attain a sense of security to pattern proper social and emotional interpersonal relationships into adulthood (Stalker & Hazelton,

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