SOCIAL WORK 601: Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Course Description
This is the first course in the Human Behavior sequence. In this course the dynamics of human behavior and the contexts within which humans grow and develop through the life cycle are explored. It provides a foundation knowledge base from which social work students ground the assessment and intervention processes with individuals and families utilizing a bio-psycho-social spiritual cultural framework. Traditional and postmodern theories are analyzed and critically evaluated. The ecological and strengths perspectives are presented in relation to human risk and resilience. HBSE I attempts to honor different ways of knowing and being, developing pathways to understanding and appreciating uniqueness. Students are challenged to explore their own values and culture in an effort to create an inclusive viewpoint of human diversity.>
Prerequisites
Admission to the graduate program in Social Work or permission of instructor.
Educational Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:1. critically analyze and apply theory, including life span development, cognitive behavioral, humanistic/transpersonal, groups, systems, ecological, and social construction;
2. critically evaluate the usefulness of theory for understanding individual, family, and group behavior;
3. differentiate the effects of cultural in relation to environmental, societal, and personal challenges;
4. examine theories of moral development exploring issues of social and economic justice within the context of the NASW code of ethics and the values of the profession; and
5. apply theory as a basis guiding research and evaluation of human behavior.