Human Behavior -Soc Env II-Winter 2025 11 DISCUSSION
Systems Perspective and Social Change
As a social worker, when you address the needs of an individual client, you must also take into account the systems with which the client interacts. Obtaining information about these systems helps you better assess your client’s situation. These systems may provide support to the client, or they may contribute to the client’s presenting problem. Consider the example of a workplace; a client may get great satisfaction and sense of purpose from a career but the interpersonal relationships at the workplace itself are toxic. This system could be contributing both positively and negatively to the client’s well-being.
For this Discussion, you examine the systems perspective and its relevance and application to practice, in light of all you have learned about human behavior and the social environment.
To Prepare:
• Review the Learning Resources on the systems perspective.
• Access the Social Work Case Studies media and navigate to Lester.
• As you explore Lester’s case, consider the systems with which Lester interacts. Think about ways you might apply a systems perspective to his case. Also consider the significance of the systems perspective for social work in general.
BY DAY 4
Post an explanation of how multiple systems within the social environment interact to impact individuals across the life span. Use Lester’s case as an example. Then explain how you as a social worker might apply a systems perspective to your work with Lester. Finally, explain how you might apply a systems perspective to social work practice in general..
Please write out the sub headings)
Support your post with examples from the course text and any other resources used to respond to this Discussion. Demonstrate that you have completed the required readings, understand the material, and are able to apply the concepts. Include a full reference of resources at the bottom of the post.
Course book
Empowerment Series: Understanding Human Behavior and the Social Environment 11TH 19
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Resources
Required Readings
• Zastrow, C. H., & Kirst-Ashman, K. K. (2019). Understanding human behavior and the social environment (11th ed.). Cengage Learning.
o Review Chapter 1, “Introduction to Human Behavior and the Social Environment” (pp. 1–44)
• Wickrama, K. A. S., O’Neal, C. W., & Lee, T. K. (2020). Aging together in enduring couple relationships: A life course systems perspective.Links to an external site. Journal of Family Theory and Review , 12 (2), 238–263. https://doi.org/10.1111/jftr.12369
Media
• Walden University, LLC. (2021). Social work case studies Links to an external site. [Interactive media]. Walden University Canvas. https://waldenu.instructure.com/
o Navigate to Lester