SCW4301

Family-Centred Practice: Concepts and Skills ( 12 points, SCA Band 1, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Margaret Lynn and Barbara Fraser

Offered:
Gippsland First semester 2006 (OCL)

Synopsis: The unit introduces students to the history of the study of family from sociological and psychological perspectives. It also introduces the conceptual and professional origins of the approaches to family-centred practice: from the perspective of the professions of family therapy, social work and psychology. The knowledge, skills and values of the competent family-centred practitioner are identified, within a framework of social justice and gender. A detailed study of the ethics of family-centred practice and ideas of self, "the therapeutic self". Students are encouraged to begin the exploration of the impact on their life experiences of their own family.

Objectives: On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to; 1. Use professional knowledge in their practice to understand the developments in family therapy and related fields and critiques, and apply their central concepts; 2. Demonstrate the perceptual and executive skills at a beginning level of competence to engage and intervene with, and to evaluate and assess families; 3. Identify professional values and the conceptual skills to assert rights for individual family members' optimal personal growth and the professional's obligation for personal development, including therapy; and utilise appropriate approaches to reflect on own family of origin.

Assessment: Literature review (2000 words): 30% + Videotape of an interview (30 minutes) and Report (1000 words): 20% + Project (4500 words): 50%