Principles and Processes of Individual Change

SW810, Section 001

Review and critical analyses of interventions with individuals, which are intended to produce individual change or the necessary conditions for such change, are the primary focus of this course. Practice principles, methods, and processes utilized in assessment and intervention will be critically analyzed for such factors as adequacy for practice, empirical bases, assumptions, outcomes including effectiveness and efficiency, and areas requiring further research and development. Selected models and methods will be discussed with one criterion being empirical support; among the approaches to be considered are the psycho social, behavior modification, cognitive-behavioral, self-awareness promotion, task implementation, contingency management, and problem-solving training procedures. Additional coverage will include the relationship of individual procedures to intervention with families and groups; the models' generalizability to diverse populations, such as those with minority, ethnic, and gender status; prevention of dysfunction and enhancement of individual competence; and ethical and value issues.