SOCW 202 - Human Behavior and the Social Environment

3 Credits: (3 lecture)

Course Description
This course introduces the normal processes of development from conception through adulthood, applying theory that is compatible with the Social Systems framework of social work education. The course serves to promote understanding of the relationship between human behavior and the social environment. It examines the factors that shape behavior and the implications of these factors for social work practice. 

Prerequisite SOCW 101.

A. Identify normal processes of biological, psychological, and social development from infancy/childhood through adulthood. 

B. Describe the biopsychosocial variables that affect individual development and behavior. 

C. Apply theoretical frameworks that seek to explain the interactions among individuals and between individuals and social systems. 

D. Evaluate biopsychosocial theories in terms of their utility, bias, and application regarding the assessment of client needs. 

E. Compare personal values and professional values as they apply to practice situations. 

F. Identify forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination in society.  

G. Describe how oppression, discrimination, and inequality are related, including political and economic factors related to matters of economic, social, and distributive justice. 

Content
A. Human development 

B. Biopsychosocial variables and the impact on development 

C. Developmental and systems theories 

D. Application of theory  

E. Core values of social work 

F. Personal values 

G. Mechanisms of oppression and discrimination 

H. Social, economic, and distributive justice

Student Evaluation
Student evaluation will be based on exams, written projects, classroom activities, and class participation.

Bibliography
Bowlby, John. Attachment. 2nd ed. New York: Basic, 1982. Print. 

Diller, Jerry V. Cultural Diversity: A Primer for the Human Services. 4th ed. Belmont: Brooks, 2007. Print. 

Erikson, Erik H. Childhood and Society. 2nd ed. New York: Norton, 1950. Print. 

Ginsburg, Herbert, and Sylvia Opper. Piaget’s Theory of Intellectual Development. 3rd ed. Upper Saddle River: Pearson, 1987. Print. 

Thomlison, Barbara. Family Assessment Handbook: An Introduction and Practical Guide to Family Assessment. 3rd ed. Belmont: Brooks, 2010. Print. 

Viorst, Judith. Necessary Losses: The Loves, Illusions, Dependencies, and Impossible Expectations That All of Us Have to Give Up in Order to Grow. New York: Fawcett, 1986. Print. 

Yates, T. M., B. Egeland, and L. A. Stroufe. “Rethinking Resilience: A Developmental Process Perspective.” Resilience and Vulnerability: Adaptation in the Context of Childhood Adversities. Ed. S. S. Luthar. Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 2003. Print.