Systems Theory: All parts of society are interconnected and focused on relationships, boundaries, and flows of energy between systems and subsystems. The systems theory focuses on interrelations between parts of society and how they work together to impact the life of an individual. (DeCarlo, M. 2018)
Frameworks to Inform
Looking at constant mobility and its effects on the lives of children experiencing orphanage through a systems theory lense shows how these children are products of a very complex system. They do not just act insolation. Using this theory allows social workers to see how and where the systemic breakdowns are that specifically coincide with an orphan’s behavior, to ultimately implement the appropriate solutions.
Micro- The Individual (Orphan): Looks at how the system directly affects the child– lack of nurture, mental health & personality disorders, housing instability, social exclusion, etc.
Mezzo- Society (Community): Looks at how community supports help benefit the lives of these children and provides guidance & confidence–support groups, therapy, grief counseling, etc.
Macro- Systems (Child Welfare System): Looks at how policies rooted in racism harm the children involved– lack of an after plan, lack of funds to provide more than the bare minimum of care, etc.
Theories to Intervene
In accordance with the values of the NASW Code of Ethics, Importance of Human Relationships is central to reintegrating children experiencing constant mobility into society. It is vital that social workers should seek to strengthen relationships in a way that restores, maintains, and enhances the well-being of these children.
Narrative Therapy: Presumes that individuals have a story to tell, as they are the experts about their own life. This perspective would allow children experiencing orphanage to create meaning and define their own challenges through their narrative. Each individuals experience can differ, and as a social worker, meeting them where they are at is what this theory is all about. Let the individual run the show. “Narrative strategies help clients define their challenges through their narrative; increase their awareness of relationships of power and domination; externalize their challenges and issues; and recount personal stories of competence and strength”. (1)
Solution Focused Practice: Presumes that people hold the answers to the problems they present. (1) It is difficult to help an individual if they do not outwardly present what they need help with. Looking at the issue of constant mobility however, children may have a hard time understanding what exactly is needed for themselves. Using this framework to work with and help find a solution to what a child needs may help that child understand that going forward, they have the ability themselves to make the changes that they feel necessary.
(1): Gitterman, A., & Heller, N. (2011). Integrating Social Work Perspectives and Models with Concepts, Methods and Skills with Other Professions’ Specialized Approaches. Clinical Social Work Journal, 39(2), 204–211. https://doi-org.proxy.wexler.hunter.cuny.edu/10.1007/s10615-011-0340-7
