Task description:

Critically evaluate ONE social work theory (from the options below): How would it inform and influence your social work practice with your chosen client group?

Your essay should:

1. Discuss the strengths AND limitations of applying this theory at the following THREE levels: micro, meso and macro.
2. Justify why this theory is suitable for social work practice with the chosen client group.

Step 1: Choose ONE of the following theories:

1. Attachment theory
2. Cognitive behavioural practice
3. Crisis / Task centred practice
4. Systems theory / Ecological systems theory Strengths-based practice
5. Narrative practice
6. Feminist theory
7. Anti-oppressive practice
8. Ba: pO hse NER

Step 2: Carefully read  AND suggested format (see below) as you begin to plan out your essay.

You can use the following headings to structure your essay:

Introduction

Introduce the context and let the reader know what this essay will do. E.g., it will present (your chosen theory) as being suitable for social work practice with (name the client group). It will discuss the strengths and limitations of applying this theory at the micro, meso and macro levels.

The client group

Using academic evidence, introduce the client group and provide an overview of the common issues and challenges they face.

The theory 

Using academic evidence, provide an overview of the theory.  Applying X theory to X client group 

1. Explain how social workers could APPLY the chosen theory to the client group at the micro level — what would that look like in practice? Remember to discuss the strengths AND limitations.
2. Explain how social workers could APPLY the chosen theory to the client group at the meso level — what would that look like in practice? Remember to discuss the strengths AND limitations.
3. Explain how social workers could APPLY the chosen theory to the client group at the macrolevel — what would that look like in practice? Remember to discuss the strengths AND limitations.

NOTE: Be specific to the common issues and challenges your chosen client group may face. Show justification for your choice of theory by considering multiple viewpoints and using high-quality academic supporting evidence within each section.

Conclusion

Provide a summary of what you have discussed in your essay. Remember you should not introduce any new information at this point.