Digital Commons Network^™

On The Dialectics Of Social Theory And Action: A Synthesis Of Six Models Of Community Engagement, Drew Hyman

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Two dominant theoretical perspectives--systems theory and conflict theory--can be seen to underlie major approaches to community intervention. This paper presents a conceptual linkage between models of intervention for planning and organizing as developed by Rothman and elaborated by Stockdale and major sociological theories of society. Two additional models are presented to address issues of management and administration. The six models are integrated into a typology which integrates the conflict and consensus theories of society in relation to the The result is a synthesis of six models for community engagement which is rooted in dialectically opposed theories of society, and which …

Retirees As Technoguides: A New Role As Shapers And Makers Of The Future, Arthur B. Shostak

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Retirees nowadays serve in many out-of-the-home roles that make astute use of their maturity, their discretion time, and their flexibility about compensation: Large numbers help as paid or voluntary aides in day care centers, health fairs, home health care, hospice programs, nursing homes, and the vital like.

A brand new role that might appeal to many would have them learn and practice the craft of technology assessment and the process of technology diffusion: With these tools retirees could serve as technoguides, or paid or voluntary aides in the testing, evaluating, and adapting of new products and services to the needs …

Administrative Offices Of Aging In State Bureaucracies: Agency Location And Organization Effectiveness, Barrie Blunt, Scott Ingram

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This study considers the effects of state level reorganization on organizational access to the governor and state legislature, its ability to coordinate service delivery, its access to budgetary funds and resources, and its visibility and prestige. The findings are based on a nation-wide survey of all State Aging Units. Conclusions suggest that reorganizing an Aging Unit does have an impact on the aforementioned variables.

Assessing Social Agency Functions: A Model, Elizabeth W. Lindsey, John S. Wodarski, Kristyn S. Greaves

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

The assessment of general agency functions is the focus of this manuscript. Initially inventories that may be utilized in the assessment of the relevance and quality of services provided are reviewed. Next, cost benefit analysis is addressed in terms of helping social workers estimate the cost of services provided. The manuscript concludes with a discussion of the issues involved in general agency assessment.

The Latent Functions Of Welfare And Need-Satisfaction Of The Disadvantaged, Zeev Ben-Sira

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

In a study carried out among a representative sample of Jewish Israeli adults, a paradigm of need-satisfaction by direct welfare assistance has been developed and, to a great extent, empirically supported. Multivariate analysis revealed that, despite the fact that it is recognized as indispensible in facilitating basic living conditions, direct welfare assistance, whatever its kind, predicts frustration rather than need-satisfaction. The data ascertain that attributing to the welfare assistance the latent functions of preserving consumers' inferiority and of pursuing the agencies' and the welfare workers' interests rather than those of the consumers, constitute a major factor in the resulting feeling …

Forensic Social Work: Practice And Vision, Thomas P. Brennan, Amy E. Gedrich, Michael J. Tardy, Katherine Tyson Mccrea

Social Work: School of Social Work Faculty Publications and Other Works

Forensic social work can bridge the gap between the criminal justice and mental health systems and serve clients who “fall between the cracks.” The authors describe theoretical and clinical issues, utilizing case examples and the literature to develop a conceptual paradigm for the role of social workers in this area.

Trends In Human Services In West Virginia, Roger A. Lohmann

Faculty & Staff Scholarship

This article provides an overview introduction to the WV Human Services Trend Study, a statewide joint venture of the WVU School of Social Work, WV Human Resources Association, and WV Department of Human Services. Rather than a conventional needs assessment questionnaire, the Trend Study opted for a series of 15 county-level community forums to gather information on the future of human services in the state. From this eight subject areas of greatest interest were identified and experts were invited to develop working papers on each of these topics.

Breaking Even: Preface To The Revised Edition, Roger A. Lohmann

Faculty & Staff Scholarship

Breaking Even: Financial Management in Nonprofit Human Services (Temple University Press. 1980) was the first book-length discussion of nonprofit financial management ever published in English. This preface was prepared, along with several new or rewritten chapters and additional changes for a possible revised edition of the book. The publisher decided not to do a second edition and the original first edition continued to sell in its small market niche for 25 years.

The De-Skilling Of Social Workers: An Examination Of The Impact Of The Industrial Model Of Production On The Delivery Of Social Services, Howard Jacob Karger

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This article examines the effect of the industrial model of production on the delivery of social services. As part of this study, the effects of technology (used in its broadest sense) and system rationalization are explored, particularly as they result in the de-skilling of social workers. Lastly, the author makes recommendations for the development of alternative criteria for system rationality and the evaluation of efficiency in social service programs.

Medicine, Technology, And Genetic Engineering: Reflections From The Outside, Jeffrey R. Plittman

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Advances in technology are producing many changes in the ways humans view and manage their lives. The refinement of genetic engineering techniques has created vast opportunities for humankind, along with novel problems and dangers. Accordingly, the questions that must be addressed pertain to the nature of life itself. Yet the scientific community can not be given sole discretion In managing todey's technologies. Instead, all segments of society must be Involved In determining how genetic engineering will be used.

Developing Social Work Interviewing Skills Through A Micro-Video Analysis Training Program, Peter C. Iverson

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Effective interviewing techniques are required for successful social work practice. Consequently, mastering this relatively complex technology is vital for both social work students and agency professionals. This article will provide a descriptive analysis of the Micro-Video Analysis Training Program which may be operationalized in either an academic classroom or agency. Also discussed are the primary components of the training program and their inter-relationships within the context of the Micro-Video Analysis approach. Hopefully this material will assist those with social work education responsibilities to teach interviewing skills more effectively.

Technology, Corporate Mobility, And A Decline In Urban Services, Marcus D. Pohlmann

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Technological changes have produced a postindustrial economy which has both facilitated and encouraged the flight of capital and well-to-do people from the older industrial cities. Left in their wake are increasing levels of unemployment, poverty, and crime. Service needs have Increased accordingly, but at a time when these cities have not only smaller tax bases but also less electoral clout with which to acquire additional financial assistance at the state and federal levels. In a nearly futile attempt to reestablish a healthy degree of private investment in their cities, municipal governments let service levels decline and focus on spurring capital …

Applying Computers To Clinical Social Work, James Gripton, Paul Licker, Leo De Groot

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper discusses the application of computer technology to clinical social work. It is based on a three-year research and demonstration project on microcomputer applications to clinical social work. The paper reviews the use of computers in social work, contrasting the developments in this field with those that hove occurred in psychiatry and clinical psychology. It then describes the two major components of the integrated software package for supporting clinical social work that has been developed and is currently being tested. The paper concludes with a discussion of the misconceptions and realities of introducing computer technology to a clinical social …

Journal Of Sociology & Social Welfare Vol. 13, No. 1 (March 1986)

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

TABLE OF CONTENTS - THEMATIC SPECIAL ISSUE TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL SERVICE DELIVERY

• Introduction to Thematic Special Issue - JOHN T. PARDECK, JOHN W. MURPHY
• Computers in Social Work and Social Welfare: Issues and Perspective - WILLIAM H. BUTTERFIELD
• Applying Computers to Clinical Social Work - JAMES GRIPTON, PAUL LICKER
• The Implications of Computer Technology in the Delivery of Human Services - NARVIAR C. BARKER
• Assessing Child Maltreatment: The Role of Testing - JOEL S. MILNER
• Technology, Stress, and Family Violence: Some Issues in Teaching Social Work Practice - SHIRLEY J. PORTER
• Scientific Technology and The Human Condition - VERNON R. …

Introduction To Thematic Special Issue, John T. Pardeck, John W. Murphy

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Currently technology is proliferating at a rate never before imagined. As a result, every facet of society has changed because of technological developments, including the delivery of social services. Although there is much debate over whether or not these changes are good or bad, they cannot be denied (Murphy and Pardeck, forthcoming). In fact, Jacques Ellul ( 1964: 127) has referred to modern society as a technological civilization. What he means by this designation is not only that society is dependent upon technology for its survival, but, more importantly, technological rationality has come to determine how persons view themselves and …

Assessing Child Maltreatment: The Role Of Testing, Joel S. Milner

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Due to the recent development of test instruments designed to assist professionals in the evaluation of child maltreatment cases, social service professionals must become familiar with issues related to test construction and use. The purpose of the present paper is to provide the reader with a discussion of issues related to test selection and use. This article, however, is not Intended to be a substitute for a basic understanding of the test validity and reliability. The paper begins with a review of different prevention modes and discusses how each mode uses test data. Next, test use as it relates to …

Scientific Technology And The Human Condition, Vernon R. Wiehe

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Society applauds the recent advancements of scientific technology in fields such as medicine, energy, and communication. While humankind profits in many ways from this technology, a few voices are heard cautioning society to consider the implications of these developments. This paper discusses the gulf which appears to exist between scientific technology and the human condition. Reasons for this gulf are: I ) the failure to develop a philosophy of science in which human values, and aspirations are viewed within the context of scientific technology, 2) the reductionist approach to science in which the parts are emphasized at the expense of …

Computers In Social Work And Social Welfare Issues And Perspective, William H. Butterfield

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper provides a general overview of the areas in which technology has had significant impact. These are specifically important for social workers, since technology poses many challenges for both society and the social work profession. Most important about modern technology is that It can either improve the human condition or destroy society. With this In mind, social workers must learn about technology, so that Its benefits are understood and problems avoided. This will not occur, however, if technology is ignored or treated as something which is inherently bad because it disrupts the status gun.

The Implications Of Computer Technology In The Delivery Of Human Services, Narviar C. Barker

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Social service programs are nowadays required to operate efficiently and effectively. In order to insure that this occurs, service delivery must be documented and evaluated like never before. Nonetheless, at the same time, clients are reporting in ever greater numbers to receive services. Computer technology can assist practitioners to deal with this apparent conflict. For example, computers facilitate documentation, encourage the uilization of advanced research techniques, and free practitioners from paper work, so that increased services can be offered. Accordingly, this technology can be used to improve the delivery of social services.

Technology, Stress, And Family Violence: Some Issues In Teaching Social Work Practice, Shirley J. Porter

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper examines family violence. Specifically, the variables most often associated with this phenomenon are discussed. As part of this analysis, a model for assessing family violence is proposed. It is noted, however, that this mode of assessment differs in many ways from technologically oriented methodologies. Moreover, the social work profession must come to recognize the difference between community sensitive and technological models, or misinformed social policies may be the result.

Computer Technology - 1984 And Beyond, Terry Holbrook

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This article examines the impact of computerization on record keeping. Particularly important about automated records is that their content becomes reified, thereby distorting the nature of client data. Because the technical side of documenting a client's activities is stressed, the existential nature of behavior is obscured. As a result, a practitioner may not gain much insight into the motives and social situation of a client. Yet without this information, irrelevant advice may be prescribed by a social worker. Accordingly, technology must not be allowed to alter the existential process of creating a client's biography in a record.

Social Service Delivery Systems: The Impact Of Technology And Organizational Structure, Louella Mann

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Changes in work and social structures are reviewed for the period from the early industrial era to the present. Work structure is hypothesized to have a significant impact upon society and the individual. The structure of the modern work setting and the rapid changes in technology have increased the stress associated with anxiety and isolation. In turn, these problems contribute to the onset of social ills. Also examined are ways to diminish the negative effects of the role conflict which results from the divergent structures present in the personal and work settings. Predictions about the future of social service delivery …

Automating The Social Work Office: Science Fictions And Practical Realities, Roger A. Lohmann

Faculty & Staff Scholarship

Social work was not originally an office-based profession but has become one in the past few decades. In the process, the information technology of social work practice has changed relatively little. Social work practice has yet to develop unique computer applications, comparable to developments in medicine, law, architecture, education and other fields. Most interest in computer applications in social work to date has been clerical and made use of off-the-shelf applications. The potential of currently available technology for office automation in social work offers the prospect not only for important productivity improvement, but also for a means to dealing with …

Private Human Services In Welfare Society, Roger A. Lohmann

Faculty & Staff Scholarship

This paper is an effort to propose a moderately optimistic future for the personal care sector of human services. It is proposed that the best available future scenario for personal care services between now and the year 2019 is to concentrate on privatization of service delivery on a small-scale basis. Government, in this model should be limited largely to three roles: 1) source of venture capital; 2) regulation of service delivery; and 3) income maintenance for the poorest populations. In this future, the main burden of personal care services will be carried by the private sector. Dramatic improvements in the …

From Social Welfare To Welfare Society: A Humane World Beyond Social Welfare?, Roger A. Lohmann

Faculty & Staff Scholarship

In the 1980's, the relationship of social welfare activities to the future has been dramatically altered. Until the conservative ascendency of the Reagan government, the future of social welfare was defined largely in terms of the incremental welfare state, characterized by gradual expansion of tax supported programs and benefits, with periodic policy refinements and extensions of benefits and coverages to new populations. Since 1980, all sorts of "doom and gloom" has been spread--mostly linked to short-term developments. This paper is an effort to propose a moderately optimistic alternative future for one segment of the social welfare system--personal care services. In …

Famulus: A Scholar's Aid System, Roger A. Lohmann

Faculty & Staff Scholarship

Computers are not just for quantitative analysis. Scholarship in the humanities and qualitative social sciences can also benefit. This essay begins the task of outlining a personal scholarly system called Famulus, or scholar's assistant, for assisting individual qualitative scholars with their research and scholarly activity. Key to the design is a proposed modular system of classifying the items in bibliographic entries. Attention is also called to emerging systems of Keywords in Context (KWIC).

A Sensory Analysis Of Self-Injurious Behavior, Cris Thomas Clay

University of the Pacific Theses and Dissertations

The present study was designed to investigate the role of sensory extinction and sensory reinforcement in the moti- vation of self-injurious behavior. The intervention was based on the assumption that each subject's SIB behavior was motivated by the sensory consequences of the behavior. A pre- assessment phase was used to select appropriate sensory ex- tinction devices and sensory reinforcing toys, although no appropriate sensory toys could be identified. Thus, treat- ment consisted solely of sensory extinction using a reversal design. Results showed that the sensory extinction devices reduced tactile stimulation of face slapping and pica for two developmentally disabled adults. …

Computer Use In Social Services Network Newsletter, Dick Schoech

Computer Use in Social Services Network

No abstract provided.

Computer Use In Social Services Network Newsletter, Dick Schoech

Computer Use in Social Services Network

No abstract provided.

Informal Helping Networks And Social Service Changes: A Community Perspective, Charles Hoch, George Hemmens, Rojean Madsen, Wim Wiewel

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Interviews with 112 household respondents and 58 social service agency directors in three ethnically and racially distinct Chicago neighborhoods provided a comprehensive assessment of -- household helping relationships in a community context. Reliance on informal helping greatly exceeded use of formal agencies at the household level. Households were twice as likely to give help as receive it in a complex variety of ways, while agencies struggled to add new functional programs in a time of retrenchment. What households gave and got did not overlap with agency programs in any coherent way. Further, household respondents and agency directors disagreed in their …