Continuation of SW 622. Delineation and study of intervention and change strategies differentiated with individuals, groups, and communities.

Builds on the curricular content covered in Introduction to Social Welfare Policy (SW 525). Both courses view social welfare policy as the framework from which social work services are developed and delivered. This course examines the macroeconomic context for policy analysis and advocacy and integrates policy and practice through student research and analysis of specific social problems. Policymaking is analyzed in legislative, community, organizational, and global environments emphasizing advocacy in the pursuit of social and economic justice.

The course will explore the social construction of individual and group racial and ethnic identities and their relationship to oppression, prejudice, discrimination, and powerlessness in social and interpersonal contexts and their impact on individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Students will have an opportunity to examine their own experiences of both privilege and oppression. Students will learn to critically examine theories, concepts, and models of practice for racial and cultural bias.

This course focuses on the characteristics and needs of youth with emotional and behavioral challenges based upon socio-cultural and ecological theories, and provides exposure to family- and youth-driven practices and approaches that represent System of Care values and principles.