Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Interpretive Methods For Social Work Practice And Research, Edmund Sherman

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

There has been a growing dissatisfaction with the apparent dominance of quantitative empirical approaches to the social sciences in general and to social work practice research in particular. This paper suggests an alternative or complementary approach which is based on modern hermeneutics, the science of interpretation. These interpretive methods are discussed in terms of their more promising applications to select areas of social work practice and research.

Introduction: Social Work And Philosophy, Roberta Wells Imre

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

A journal issue unequivocally about philosophical concerns in social work is evidence of the recent progress we have made in the profession in recognizing the importance of philosophical commitments in social work activities. Awareness of the presence of these commitments and dissatisfaction with conventional social work resources for addressing them led to the organization of the Study Group for Philosophical Issues in 1985. The papers presented here have been contributed by members of this group, which is open to anyone interested in joining the conversation.

Journal Of Sociology & Social Welfare Vol. 18, No. 4 (December 1991)

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

SPECIAL ISSUE ON PHILOSOPHICAL ISSUES IN SOCIAL WORK

• SOCIAL WORK AND PHILOSOPHY - Roberta Wells Imre
• THE PLACE OF SCIENCE IN SOCIAL WORK - Ann Weick
• MY PARADIGM CAN BEAT YOUR PARADIGM: SOME REFLECTIONS ON KNOWLEDGE CONFLICTS - Glenn Haworth
• TECHNOLOGICAL FIX: ALTERING THE CONSCIOUSNESS OF THE SOCIAL WORK PROFESSION - Dennis Saleebey
• INTERPRETIVE METHODS FOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE AND RESEARCH - Edmund Sherman
• MEANING AND MOTIVATIONAL COMPLEXITIES OF PRACTICE INTERVENTIONS - Jerome Sachs
• QUALITATIVE RESEARCH AND SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE: PARTNERS IN DISCOVERY - Howard Goldstein
• RATIONALITY IN SOCIAL WORK: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION - Shimon S. Gottschalk and Stanley L. …

My Paradigm Can Beat Your Paradigm: Some Reflections On Knowledge Conflicts, Glenn O. Haworth

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Disagreements about knowledge generation and application in social work are examined from a paradigmatic level to try to account for the moral indignation often accompanying the disagreements. The positivist paradigm with its pervasive influence on social science inquiry has been challenged in recent times by a more relativistic, interactive, consciousness based paradigm. The problem of "standardizing Intersubjectivity", and the process of "Inversion of Mastery", are used to examine the paradigm differences. The positivist's accusation that the newer paradigm advocate is "irresponsible", and the rejoinder that positivism contributes to a "damaging hoax" on humankind are the crux of the moral heat …

Meaning And Motivational Complexities Of Practice Interventions, Jerome Sachs

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Social phenomenological theory and methods are used to uncover, examine and understand the complexity of meanings and motives which precipitate social work practice. The meanings and motives were coded into five categories; worker, client, agency, other institutions, and noninstitutional meanings and motives. In addition, three theoretical concepts, operational themes, therapeutic worth of the client and operational dilemmas were developed and explored.

Qualitative Research And Social Work Practice: Partners In Discovery, Howard Goldstein

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

The methods, outcomes and distinct characteristics of qualitative research are presented to establish the relevance of this mode of inquiry for research in social work practice. The phenomenological foundations are outlined and the various methods including ethnograpy, participant-observation and life history are illustrated by the use of an array of qualitative research projects. The same studies also disclose the forms of knowledge generated by qualitative research relative to the importance of values, ethics, culture, spirituality and aesthetics.

East/West Philosophical Synthesis In Transpersonal Theory, Edward R. Canda

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Transpersonal theory is a perspective on human behavior and development that synthesizes philosophical and scientific insights from Eastern and Western traditions of thought. This article presents challenges from transpersonal theory to ethnocentric limitations of conventional developmental theories in social work. Three fundamental philosophical assumptions of conventional theories are critiqued: that linear, rational thinking is the standard for optimal cognitive development; that autonomy is the standard for psychosocial maturity; and that ordinary waking dualistic consciousness is the standard for normal mental operation. Limitations of transpersonal theory are also examined. Based on the challenges and insights of transpersonal theory, suggestions for innovation …

Mental Health Services: An International Perspective, Thomas R. Holmes, Merl C. Hokenstad

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper provides an introduction to this special edition on international mental health perspectives. The importance of an international perspective is discussed and key questions are raised to provide the reader with a frame of reference for examining the mental health systems in the countries presented. An orientation to some of the current mental health issues in Europe, the United States, and developing countries is given as point of comparison for the reader. Questions discussed relate to the status of institutional care, outpatient services, the composition of mental health staff, the role of community interventions and prevention, and the availability …

Occupational Social Work And Multinational Corporations, Chathapuram S. Ramanathan

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

In a global economy, transfer of human technology via multinational Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) is a reality. Successful development and implementation of multinational EAPs require attention to the host country's political, legal frameworks, and cultural issues. The roles of occupational social workers vary based on these dimensions and issues. The targets of interventions are foreign executives and their families, host country employees and their families, and the organization itself.

The Development Of Mental Health Services In Sub-Saharan Africa: The Case Of Rwanda, Froduald Gatarayiha, Franz Baro, Morton O. Wagenfeld, Rene Stockman

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper considers several aspects of the evolution, organization and current status of the mental health system of Rwanda. The centerpiece of the Rwandan mental health system is the neuropsychiatric hospital in Ndera. Resource constraints preclude development of an extensive system of specialty mental health care. The World Health Organization has proposed that mental health services can best be delivered in developing countries through decentralization and integration with primary health care services. The accomplishments and problems encountered in implementing this model in Rwanda are described and, based on this experience, some recommendations are offered for other developing countries.

Mental Health Services In Hong Kong: History, Modern Development, And Issues, Wai-Kwong Mak

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper provides a comprehensive account of the history, current mental health services, and related-issues in Hong Kong. Psychiatric services provided by the Government such as inpatient, outpatient, and daypatient treatments are highlighted. Community mental health services rendered by the voluntary sector such as the counseling and casework, care in half-way houses, and psychiatric nursing are also discussed. Recent statistical information provides a detailed picture of psychiatric institutions and characteristics of patients. Mental health issues typical of developed countries are discussed.

A Cross-Cultural Perspective On Selected Mental Health Systems, Gary Mathews, Morton O. Wagenfeld

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

The information provided from authors around the world on their respective mental health systems is analyzed and compared. Several key dimensions are utilized, including the relationship of mental health services to other services, institutional care, community care, staffing, prevention and mental health promotion services, and accessibility. Resources and governmental priorities are identified as being essential to the provision of effective services. It is clear that the general trends identified by the experts for mental health in both developing and developed countries are by no means universal in applicability.

The Global Economy And The American Welfare State, Howard Jacob Karger

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

The American social welfare state is approaching a crisis because of the global economy. Survival in a new world economy requires corporations to become more efficient, a strategy which leads to a rapidly changing technology, plant shutdowns, and industrial reorganization. To aid corporations, government often curbs taxes to make capital available for investment. These policies can lead to governmental debt, reduced welfare services, a deterioration in the infrastructure, and myriad social problems. This article investigates the effects of the global economy on the American welfare state.

Asian American Immigrants: A Comparison Of The Chinese, Japanese, And Filipinos, John K. Matsouka, Donald H. Ryujin

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

An historical overview of the immigration of the three most populous Asian American groups in the United States is presented. The immigrant experiences of the Chinese, Filipinos, and Japanese are compared, and the implications of their experiences for current and future immigration/ resettlement programs and policies are discussed.

Job Satisfaction Among Paraprofessionals In Israel, Moshe Sherer

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This study deals with paraprofessional job characteristics, motivation and satisfaction. The subjects represented two paraprofessional groupsstreet corner workers, who enjoy a relatively high status, and homemakers, whose status is relatively low. The purpose of the study was to examine job characteristics that influence the level of job satisfaction and motivation. Analysis of responses to the Job Diagnostic Survey (Hackman & Oldham, 1975) indicates that different variables contribute to and explain the level of job satisfaction and motivation of each group. The results are discussed in the light of the effects of job characteristics on the satisfaction obtained from work, and …

Social Support For The Black Elderly: Is There A Link Between Informal And Formal Assistance?, Susie A. Spence

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This study explores informal and formal social support among a sample of elderly southern Blacks. The results reveal that all respondents received informal assistance and that while overall formal assistance was low, a number of respondents received support from both sources. The author discusses these findings in relation to the supplement model of elderly social support and their implications for social service providers.

Racial Differences In The Use Of Drugs And Alcohol Among Low Income Youth And Young Adults, John E. Poulin

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This study examines the use of drugs and alcohol among 284 youth and young adults of a low income urban community. Racial differences in the use of drugs and alcohol are examined for four age groups between 12 and 25.

Overall, the findings show significant racial differences in the use of both drugs and alcohol. Black youth and young adults have lower drug use and alcohol use rates than their white peers. The differences hold for the four age groups examined. Implications of the findings for drug prevention programs are discussed.

Journal Of Sociology & Social Welfare Vol. 18, No. 2 (June 1991)

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

SPECIAL ISSUE ON MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

• FOREWORD
• MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE - Thomas R. Holmes and Merl C. Hokenstad
• THE DEVELOPMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: THE CASE OF RWANDA - Froduald Gatarayiha, Franz Baro, Morton 0. Wagenfeld,
• & Rene Stockman
• MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN INDIA - S. Rajkumar
• MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN MEXICO - Teresa Lartigue and Juan Vives
• MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN EGYPT - A. Okasha
• MENTAL HEALTH POLICY AND PROGRAMS IN ISRAEL: TRENDS AND PROBLEMS OF A DEVELOPING SYSTEM - Uri Aviram
• MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN HONG KONG: HISTORY, MODERN …

Mental Health Services In India, S. Rajkumar

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

India has a population of over 800 million of which about 20 million are suffering from a mental illness. In terms of numbers of patients alone, mental health planners are presented with quite a challenge. How the challenge is being met is the topic of this article. Governmental efforts need to be augmented by voluntary agencies and private practitioners for optimal mental health care. Despite deficiencies, India is a pace setter for many developing countries. It has the political will to initiate needed changes. Aftercare services for the mentally ill should be a top future priority.

Mental Health Services In Mexico, Teresa Lartigue, Juan Vives

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

The history of mental health services in Mexico is traced from the time of the Spanish conquest to modern times. The present structure of mental health services is outlined as it relates to the overall social services and health\care system in Mexico. Inpatient, aftercare, partial hospitalization, and outpatient service are outlined and described. Levels of service and distribution of facilities and staff by region are given. Methods of intervention are described from traditional healers, to highly specialized modern psychiatry, to innovative community self-management programs. Key issues in the future are financial resources, distribution of services and staff, and ways to …

Mental Health Services In Egypt, A. Okasha

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper begins with a historical perspective on mental health care from ancient Egypt to modern times. Current mental health services are described including epidemiological information, the structure of services, and methods of service delivery. Contrasts are made between urban and rural community care systems. The changing demographics of institutional care are analyzed in detail and future plans for psychiatric services are discussed. The recent development of comprehensive interdisciplinary model of service and the founding of a training center for this model is described.

Mental Health Policy And Programs In Israel: Trends And Problems Of A Developing System, Uri Aviram

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Israel has an ancient history blended together with a relatively brief independent identity. An introductory section provides a backdrop for understanding mental health policies and programs in the context of the cultural and historical background of Israel's people. The second section portrays the nature of the mental health delivery system. The final section focuses on three interrelated issues: the limited development of community mental health services, the dominance of the mental hospital in the provision of mental health services, and the medicalization of mental health services.

Mental Health Services In Japan, Kunihiko Asai

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Modern Japanese mental health services have their beginning with the conclusion of World War II. The system of services has since changed at all levels. New laws affording fundamental rights to mental patients were initiated in 1950, but reforms are in process even today that continue down the path toward more enlightened and specialized care. Demographic data are presented including the number of patients and their characteristics, and the number and kinds of service providers. An outline of the administration of mental health services is provided with special emphasis on institutional care. Future trends are highlighted.

Does Social Security Redistribute Income?: A Tax-Transfer Analysis, Namkee G. Choi

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Despite some forced-savings elements, social security is in reality a taxtransfer system based on pay-as-you-go financing. Using a tax-transfer approach, this paper analyzes the redistributive effects of social security by comparing the 1986 benefit distribution to the retired and disabled population, their dependents, and survivors with the 1986 payroll tax incidence of the working population. Findings indicate that a considerable degree of redistribution occurs from middle- and high-income tax payers to poor and near-poor beneficiaries. The paper also analyzes the demographic characteristics of taxpayers and beneficiaries to measure redistribution among different genders, marital status, age, and racial groups.

Journal Of Sociology & Social Welfare Vol. 18, No. 2 (June 1991)

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

CONTENTS

• GLOBAL ECONOMY AND THE AMERICAN WELFARE STATE - Howard Jacob Karger
• DOES SOCIAL SECURITY REDISTRIBUTE INCOME?: A TAX-TRANSFER ANALYSIS - Namkee G. Choi
• SOCIAL SERVICE VOUCHERS: ISSUES FOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE - Michael D. Parker
• HERMENEUTICS AND THE SOCIAL SCIENCES: AN EVALUATION OF THE FUNCTION OF HERMENEUTICS IN A CONSUMER DISABILITY STUDY - Charles Ringma and Christopher Brown
• WAR, PEACE, AND "THE SYSTEM": THREE PERSPECTIVES - Paul Adams
• JOB SATISFACTION AMONG PARAPROFESSIONALS IN ISRAEL - Moshe Sherer
• ASIAN AMERICAN IMMIGRANTS: A COMPARISON OF THE CHINESE, JAPANESE, AND FILIPINOS - Jon K. Matsuoka and Donald H. Ryujin
• OCCUPATIONAL SOCIAL WORK …

Social Service Vouchers: Issues For Social Work Practice, Michael D. Parker

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

The current political climate has created renewed interest in vouchers as a method to finance and deliver human service programs. After explaining voucher theory and reviewing major voucher programs and experiments, this article discusses potential consequences of social service vouchers by identifying issues that are of concern to social work and related professions.

Hermeneutics And The Social Sciences: An Evaluation Of The Function Of Hermeneutics In A Consumer Disability Study, Charles Ringma, Christopher Brown

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This paper explicates the hermeneutic procedure utilized in the development and interpretation of a questionnaire for consumers with a disability regarding their perspectives on the accessibility and quality of human services they are using. It finds that consumers experience difficulty in bringing into language their critique of existing services. The paper argues the value of a hermeneutic methodology in the social sciences and its usefulness in refining qualitative survey methods designed to explicate the perspectives of those experiencing relative powerlessness in using human services. It seeks, moreover, to establish the complementarity of the hermeneutics of suspicion and those of affirmation.

War, Peace, And "The System": Three Perspectives, Paul Adams

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

Social workers have sometimes seen war as part of a larger system and as linked to other forms of violence or social evil. This article considers three kinds of analysis which identify different systems (capitalism, patriarchy, and exterminism), see the links in different ways, and lead to different practical conclusions. Each perspective is examined in terms of its capacity to explain the phenomena it describes and to identify a social change strategy that can eliminate them. It is suggested that social workers may be professionally predisposed to select among these perspectives for reasons other than their explanatory power or strategic …

Conservative Welfare Reform Proposals And The Reality Of Subemployment, Robert Sheak, David D. Dabelko

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

This article analyzes and critiques conservative welfare proposals and their assumptions. The concept of subemployment is introduced along with relevant data to identify the nature of the job problem in the U.S. since the early 1970s. Particular emphasis is placed upon the magnitude of employment difficulties during the 1980s. The article concludes that without a major job creation component, conservative welfare reforms intensify rather than ameliorate the subsistence living conditions of the poor.

An Examination Of Research Explaining Public Welfare Spending At The State Level, Robert G. Mogull

The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare

A large body of research has examined the determinants of welfare spending at various jurisdictional levels. This paper takes stock of the accomplishments of these studies within a limited framework. Primary socioeconomic and political factors are surveyed and reviewed with respect to their explanatory association with appropriations for public welfare at the level of states.