SW 451 Person in Environment I (3)
The first of a two-course sequence addressing human behavior in the context of the social environment. The primary focus is on introducing critical thinking and analytic skills by promoting an appreciation of differing points of view and by fostering the ability to identify those factors which either enable or inhibit individuals and social systems (families, organizations, groups, organizations, and communities) in performing their daily expectable tasks. Special attention is given to systems theory, the ecological model, role theory, and the strengths perspective as explanatory frameworks for understanding how individuals, families, and communities function. Particular emphasis is placed upon the influence of diversity–including culture, race, spirituality, gender, sexual orientation, and physical or cognitive ability–in the development of the person and in the clarification of values.
Prerequisite:PS 102S or equivalent, SO 111 or equivalent, and BI112 or equivalent.
