In this Strengths Perspective Theory assessment, your grade will be based on the ability to organize your thoughts and reflections, as it pertains to discussing TWO oppressed populations and specific theories that best supports the outcome for the identified populations. You will be expected to
present your ideas (in writing format) in a clear and concise manner. This assignment is an attempt
to bridge the gap between social justice, oppressed populations, theory, and clinical social work
practice. You are expected to identify, compare, and discuss two oppressed populations, select at
least TWO theoretical approaches that connect to the populations, and select and discuss the
interventions/strategies that you would utilize to best support the populations identified. Please
find the specific areas of focus that should be discussed, compared and identified for your paper
below:
OUTLINE:
1. Identify TWO marginalized/oppressed populations (by race, gender, sexual orientation,
socioeconomic status, disability, etc. or any combination thereof). Indicate the reason behind your interest in the populations, and its direct connection to social work practice. (You must provide some data specific points on the trends associated with both populations.) (POPULATION: Black Women, Intimate Partner Violence and Criminalization vs. Hispanic Women, Intimate Partner Violence and Criminalization)
2. Identify, discuss & compare the special needs the populations may face, which either
constitute their primary problems or contribute to their development. Discuss, in general,
how and why these special needs tend to develop for the oppressed/marginalized
populations or why they persist. (Consider any biological, psychological, spiritual, fiscal
or environmental influences on these needs.)
3. Reflect (identify, compare and discuss) on AT LEAST TWO theories of social work
practice and indicate which theories seem best suited to deal/assist with the special needs
of the marginalized groups. (BRIEFLY discuss the main points of the theory selected, but
spend more time discussing the connection made between your populations and the
theories’ framework). (THEORIES: 1. ECOLOGICAL THEORY; 2. FAMILY SYSTEMS THERAPY)
4. Identify and discuss your basic assumptions, especially as they apply to the diversity in
culture, ethnicity, race, gender, class, religion, sexual orientation, disability, etc. about the
populations.
5. Discuss how theories challenge the basic assumptions outlined by your groups when
discussing the oppressed populations. (Consider any shortcomings or inconsistencies that
theory/theories have when outlining how to best provide support for your population/(s).)
(Challenge the theories!!!! Are their any ethical, cultural challenges that should be
considered?)
6. Identify and discuss the strengths that members of these populations may possess or may
have developed as a result of the characteristics outlined above. (Consider biological,
psychological, and environmental sources of strength.)
7. Based on your selected theory, discuss some interventions/strategies that would be best
suited to work with your specific population
** references should be used from peer-reviewed articles, research, theories, books, etc from 2000-2023 ONLY **
**compare and contract theories and populations.