WK 8 dis peers Use the Problem-Solving Model to Move Through the Life Model

 

This week, you will move from applying theories and theoretical perspectives to considering and applying models. Watch this video for a brief overview of the difference between the two:

Some practitioners and scholars employ the terms “theory” and “model” interchangeably, so remember that a model provides the steps, procedures, or techniques to solve the problem or to set the change in motion. This week, you will look at two social work models: the life model and the problem-solving model.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Apply the life model to social work practice
  • Apply the problem-solving model to social work practice
  • Analyze the effect of defense mechanism on client progression through the problem-solving and life models
  • Analyze gaps in the life model for a specific population

Discussion: Use the Problem-Solving Model to Move Through the Life Model

Piedra and Engstrom (2009) noted how the life model “remains general and unspecific regarding factors that affect immigrant families” (p. 272). Recall that there will never be one theory or a model that fully explains a phenomenon or lays out all the steps and procedures when working with complex issues that clients present to social workers. Recognizing this, Piedra and Engstrom selected another theory in the immigration literature—segmented assimilation theory. They identified concepts from segmented assimilation theory to “fill in” the gaps that the life model does not address.

In this Discussion, you examine gaps in the life model by applying it to your field experience.

To Prepare

  • Review the life model.
  • Review this article in the Learning Resources: Piedra, L. M., & Engstrom, D. W. (2009). Segmented assimilation theory and the life model: An integrated approach to understanding immigrants and their children. Social Work, 54(3), 270–277. https://doi.org/10.1093/sw/54.3.270
  • Apply a case study from this course.  ( case studies has been upload, pick  the best one for the discussion )

Post a response to the following:

Using an example from your case studies respond to the following:

  • Identify and describe the diverse population and the unique characteristics and/or the distinctive needs of the population in 3–4 brief sentences.
  • Explain how you would use the life model to help the client understand and describe their challenges.
  • Explain how the problem-solving model can help the client address their challenges.
  • How is the client using defense mechanisms, and how is that impeding the ability to problem solve and move forward in the life model?
  • Identify where the gaps are in applying the life model for this population.
  • When looking at the gaps, explain which theory might be helpful in filling the gaps of the life model when working with this population.