Social Work Theories
Behavioral Theory -
Presumes that most human behavior and even some types of emotional reactions are best
explained by principles of learning
Bronfenbrenner Ecologicial Systems Theory -
Micro, Mezzo, Macro
Exchange Theory -
Most people, most of the time place their own needs and desires above those of other people
and will behave in ways that move them closer to whatever they perceive to be of benefit to
themselves.
Psychodynamic Theory -
Focuses mostly on the clients deeply personal thoughts, feelings, and inner conflicts. It gives
attention to power of intense emotions and feelings (hatred, fear, anger, guilt, lust) and the
psychological turmoil they can cause.
Strengths Perspective -
Focuses on the clients strengths, this perspective presumes that all clients have strengths, even
when the clients behaviour is dysfunctional
Systems Theory -
those concepts that emphasize reciprocal relationships between the elements that constitute the
whole. Systems theories focus on the interrelationships of elements in nature, encompassing physics,
chemistry, biology and social relationships.
Conflict Theory -
- draws attention to conflict, dominance and oppression in social life
- power is unequally divided, some social groups dominate others
