Theories & Methods of Family Intervention Jack Nowicki, LMSW-ACP Page 1 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK Course Number: 393R3 Instructor’s Name: Jack Nowicki, LCSW Unique Number: 61995 Office Number: SWB 3.130 C Semester: Fall 2011 Office Phone: E - Mail 892-6888 (H) 328-6860 (W) [email protected] Meeting Time/Place: W 2:30-5:30 Rm 2.116 Office Hours: M, 4:15–5:30 or by appointment THEORIES AND METHODS OF FAMILY INTERVENTION I. Standardized Course Description This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of models and methods of family intervention. The content will include methods for assessment of families and an overview of several different models of family intervention with a focus on intervention skills and techniques. The course is grounded in best practices and the identification, analysis, and implementation of empirically-based intervention strategies. This course will focus on using multiple perspectives in the advanced application of theories, models, and skills utilized in short- and longer-term family interventions. II. Standardized Course Objectives By the end of the semester, students will be able to: 1. Compare various theoretical approaches to working with the family as a system, including understanding the impact of the ecological and social environments in which diverse families live; (Cl/APB 7) 2. Demonstrate understanding of similarities and differences among theories and critically assess their theoretical perspectives, value bases, and the role of gender in family dynamics; (Cl/APB 7) 3. Integrate and demonstrate the differential application of procedures, techniques, and methods of family intervention models that reflect best practices for problem areas or helping diverse client groups; (Cl/APPB 4) 4. Select theories, models, and interventions and then critically evaluate and analyze these approaches as to their effectiveness in given situations. This includes: (a) the adequacy of the research and knowledge base; (b) the range of applicability; and (c) the value and ethical issues, including the student’s own value system; (Cl/APB 2) 5. Apply knowledge of the impact of policy and social justice issues to interventions with families of diverse cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, family structure, national origin, ability, or other manifestation of diversity; (Cl/APB 6) 6. Demonstrate skill in using family therapy theory to assess family dysfunction in the context of the larger community and target systems within and outside the family for change; (Cl/APB 10a) 7. Implement and evaluate the effectiveness of family interventions. (Cl/APB10c) The School of Social Work has been continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1952. In order to maintain our accreditation status, we engage in ongoing curriculum assessment to demonstrate compliance with CSWE’s Education Policies and Accreditation Standards (EPAS). Several required courses in our curriculum are part of this ongoing assessment, including this course. Below is a list of the specific Educational Policies (EP) and Practice Behaviors (PB) that are assessed in this course. The complete EPAS can be optioned from your Student Handbook.Theories & Methods of Family Intervention Jack Nowicki, LMSW-ACP Page 2 EP2.1.2. Apply social work ethical principles to guide professional practice. CL/APB2 Refine ability to manage value differences and ethical dilemmas Objectives 4 Assignment: Readings and in class activities & skill building exercises EP2.1.4. Engage diversity and difference in practice. CL/APB4 Utilize needs, values, and strengths in applying appropriate interventions for diverse client systems Objectives 3 Assignment: In class activities, skill building exercises, cookbook EP2.1.6. Engage in research-informed practice and practice-informed research. CL/APB6 Apply empirically supported evidence to practice Objectives 5 Assignment: Cookbook EP 2.1.7. Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment. CL/APB7 Synthesize and select human behavior and the social environment theories to match client needs Objectives 1, 2 Assignment: In class activities, skill building exercises, cookbook EP2.1.10a. Engagement. CL/APB10a Integrate theory-based relational skills in all areas of client engagement Objectives 6 Assignment: In class activities, skill building exercises, cookbook EP2.1.10c. Intervention CL/APB10c Critically apply interventions to design, implement and evaluate effective practice Objectives 7 Assignment: Cookbook III. Teaching Methods This class provides opportunities for both theory and skill development. Family practice models will be presented through a combination of lectures, demonstrations of practice interventions, experiential skill-building exercises, and class discussions integrating the course readings, and an essay exam testing students’ knowledge and ability to communicate. IV. Safety Policy As part of professional social work education, students may have assignments that involve working in agency settings and/or the community. As such, these assignments may present some risks. Sound choices and caution may lower risks inherent to the profession. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and adhere to policies and practice related to agency and/or community safety. Students should also notify instructors regarding any safety concerns. V. Required Texts • Janzen, C. Harris, O., Jordan, C. & Franklin, C. (2006). Family treatment: Evidenced-Based practice with populations at-risk. Pacific Grove,CA: Brooks/Cole. • Gehart, D. (2010). Mastering competencies in family therapy. Pacific Grove, CA: Cengage Learning. Online Readings: • All additional readings are available on BlackboardTheories & Methods of Family Intervention Jack Nowicki, LMSW-ACP Page 3 VI. Course Requirements The grade for the course will be based on the student’s ability to demonstrate knowledge and methods from the evidenced-based models of family therapy and effective interventions for solving family problems. Class attendance, participation, and promptness in completing assignments are considered when assigning the grade. There are three major assignments. This is a professional practice class and each student is expected to demonstrate behavior that meets the criteria of the National