Class Descriptions

Working with Transitional Age Youth

SW712

Credits:	1
Prerequisites:	None

Pathway Associations

Community Change
Global
Interpersonal Practice	Elective (Host)
Mgmt & Leadership
Policy & Political
Program Evaluation
Older Adults
Children & Families	Elective

Course Description

Transitional age youth, defined as the transition period from adolescence to young adulthood, represents a developmental periods characterized by, among other things, increased risk taking and vulnerability for behavioral and mental health conditions. Yet the social work theoretical, empirical and practice literature remain underdeveloped, particularly for transitional age youth with behavioral health and mental health conditions. Social work practitioners and researchers alike play an essential role in ameliorating behavioral health conditions among transitional age youth. This course focuses on the state of the science when working with transitional age youth with behavioral health conditions. Students in this course will acquire a general understanding of (1) the prevalence and variations of behavioral health conditions among this overlooked and vulnerable population, (2) etiological factors associated with behavioral health conditions, (3) theoretical frameworks to inform practice with transitional age youth, and (4) best programs and practices when working with transitional age youth.

Objectives

● Describe the prevalence and risk and protective factors associated with a variety of behavioral health conditions among transitional age youth
● Identify theoretical frameworks to inform approaches to working with transitional age youth with behavioral health conditions
● Identify screening and assessment tools for various behavioral health conditions
● Describe prevention and treatment approaches for at least one behavioral health condition
● Identify and describe a policy that is aimed at addressing at least one behavioral health condition
● Demonstrate skills to conceptualize a treatment plan when working with transitional age youth with behavioral health conditions

Design

This course is designed to meet for two- eight hour sessions. In person and web based participation will be required. In person sessions are devoted to integrating materials from readings and other sources with the practice framework. Application to practice and policy through cases and discussion will be utilized.

Intensive Focus on Privilege, Oppression, Diversity and Social Justice (PODS)

This course integrates PODS content and skills with a special emphasis on the identification of theories, practice and/or policies that promote social justice, illuminate injustices and are consistent with scientific and professional knowledge. Through the use of a variety of instructional methods, this course will support students developing a vision of social justice, learn to recognize and reduce mechanisms that support oppression and injustice, work toward social justice processes, apply intersectionality and intercultural frameworks and strengthen critical consciousness, self-knowledge and self-awareness to facilitate PODS learning.