Reflective questions - Coursework Example

Reflections for Discussion Here Here Here Here Reflections for Discussion The selection of an intervention method is one of the key components in the case by case activities of a social worker. Desirable outcomes are unlikely if the client is not subjected to the appropriate intervention(s). The vast number of interventions available to social workers can be intimidating when making a choice, but with the proper considerations prior to selection, the variety of intervention tools becomes a blessing rather than a curse.

Thankfully, there are several guidelines that are often employed to guide the choice of intervention to be used with individual clients. The primary strategies employed when choosing an intervention include gaining a thorough understanding of the psychological, sociological, and/or other scientific theories that may apply to the clients individual situation. These theories are fundamentally linked to the various methods that could apply. An additional strategy involves the use of observation to perform appropriate social work assessments.

The results of these assessments will help in many aspects of case study, including analysis and forming outcome hypotheses in addition to intervention selection. While scientific theories are the backbone of interventions, we cannot assume that all theories are scientifically sound. Keeping to articles found in peer reviewed publications is a common method for avoiding "bogus" research, but sadly we again cannot always trust even those established sources. The only sure way to be confident of the theories that support interventions is to become familiar with the critiquing of scientific research and to employ this technique when evaluating research related to the concept.

Good theories are backed up by good research. The use of research that is not considered ethical would be completely detrimental to the mission of social workers. It is paramount that social work research and studies considered by social workers meet the high ethical standards associated with the field. According to a 2002 article by Peled and Leichtentritt, there are four general categories in which we can classify necessary ethical considerations. A primary concern is the prevention of harm to the subject, and a study should ensure that all possible discomfort be minimized and, in most cases, eliminated prior to commencing research.

A similar consideration is the impact of the experiment on subject empowerment, as good research should empower those involved. Additionally, research should have benefits for subjects and as many others as possible. Finally, and perhaps least obvious of all, are concerns related to the competence of the conducting researcher(s). Often an oversight, it must be noted that incompetence wastes time and resources, for subjects and everyone else involved. If we fail to investigate the validity of scientific research, then we risk continuing an assumption that was never substantiated, or worse, spreading false information.

These risks are why it is not a good idea to rely upon tradition or authority when selecting intervention methods. However, the reliance on scientific theory to support intervention methods is not a reckless endeavor by any means. The scientific method is a set of guidelines that have been established to aid in the consistent reporting of observations. An important aspect of the method is the need to repeat studies many times before being able to draw a conclusion. Repeated testing and stringent techniques are elements of science that can and do aid in reducing mistakes when applied in social work, or any profession.

ReferencePeled, E., & Leichtentritt, R. (2002). The ethics of qualitative social work research. Qualitative Social Work, 1(2), 145-169.