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Theories/Conceptual Frameworks: February 1, 2005

Posted on: Tuesday, 1 February 2005, 03:00 CST

THEORIES/CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS JOURNAL ARTICLES 1741. BARNARD, PJ. Bridging between basic theory and clinical practice. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 42(9): 977-1000, Sept 2004; ISSN 0005-7967. philip.barnard@mrc-cbu.cam.ac.uk

This paper articulates and discusses the parts played by different processes and representations in the overall conduct of applied clinical science. It distinguishes two sorts of representation, theories in the science base and bridging representations needed to map from real world behavior to basic theory and from theory back to the real world. It is then argued that macro-theories of the "normal" human mental architecture could help synthesize basic theoretical accounts of diverse psychopathologies, without recourse to special purpose clinical cognitive theories of particular psychopathologies or even specific symptoms. Using the Interacting Cognitive Subsystems model (Affect, Cognition and Change: Re-modeling Depressive Thought, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Hove, 1993), some specific macro-theoretic variables are identified. Concrete illustrations are given of how the essence of quite complex basic theory can be translated into a simpler representational format to help clinicians conceptualize a psychopathological state and pinpoint relevant variables that might be changed by therapeutic interventions. Some suggestions are also offered about how the inevitable problem of complexity in multiple component theories might be directly confronted. (Journal abstract)

1742. BENIGHT, C.C. & BANDURA, A. Social cognitive theory of posttraumatic recovery: the role of perceived self-efficacy. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 42(10): 1129-1148, Oct 2004; ISSN 0005-7967. bandura@psych.stanford.edu

This article integrates findings from diverse studies on the generalized role of perceived coping self-efficacy in recovery from different types of traumatic experiences. They include natural disasters, technological catastrophes, terrorist attacks, military combat, and sexual and criminal assaults. The various studies apply multiple controls for diverse sets of potential contributors to posttraumatic recovery. In these different multivariate analyses, perceived coping self-efficacy emerges as a focal mediator of posttraumatic recovery. Verification of its independent contribution to posttraumatic recovery across a wide range of traumas lends support to the centrality of the enabling and protective function of belief in one's capability to exercise some measure of control over traumatic adversity. (Journal abstract)

1743. BOISEN, L. & SYERS, M. The integrative case analysis model for linking theory and practice. Journal of Social Work Education, 40(2): 205-217, Spr/Sum 2004; ISSN 1043-7797. boisen@augsburg.edu

This article introduces a case analysis model and field seminar format developed to enhance students' abilities to systematically integrate theory and practice in relation to their work with practicum clients. The authors draw upon learning theories and empirical research to explain the utility of the model and then describe specific components of the field seminar format including structured student assignments, associated classroom pedagogy, and an evaluation plan. The authors discuss the feasibility of implementing this model and offer considerations for further research. (Journal abstract)

1744. STALLE, K.M. Runaway youth system dynamics: a theoretical framework for analyzing runaway and homeless youth policy. Families in Society, 85(3): 379-390, July-Sept 2004; ISSN 1044-3894. kstaller@umich.edu

System dynamic models help explain why intuitive, well- intentioned solutions to social problems go awry when introduced into complicated social systems. In this article, the author develops a dynamic model, applying it to runaway and homeless youth behavior and shelter usage. Together, the model and supporting evidence imply that simple linear thinking may guide policy expansion to the detriment of homeless youth. Shelters provide incentives for other service systems to neglect difficult cases, which raises serious questions about the efficacy of the shelter system. This model provides common ground upon which practitioners, administrators, policymakers, and research communities can consider the impact and effectiveness of policy and service. Furthermore, the model challenges these communities to bring dynamic system considerations to their work. (Journal abstract)

1745. TOSONE, C. Relational social work: honoring the tradition. Smith College Studies in Social Work, 74(3): 475487, june 2004; ISSN 0037-7317. Smith College School for Social Work, Lilly Hall, Northampton, MA 01063

For social work clinicians trained in psychoanalysis there may be a tendency to disavow their earlier social work training and to identify themselves solely as psychoanalysts. This article addresses this tendency and introduces the term relational social work as a way to describe the intrinsic relational roots of social work theory and practice. A definition of relational social work is offered and its distinguishing features are outlined in comparison to relational psychoanalysis. (Journal abstract)

DISSERTATIONS

1746. WEISS, Y.L. The importance of the peer group in the Israeli kibbutz for the development of adult attachment style.

Smith College, PhD, Aug 2004.

The focus of this study was on how childhood peer relations in the kibbutz influence adult attachment styles. A total of 392 adults (ages 24-68) from about 50 kibbutzim was given measures of adult attachment, adult attachment to groups, parental relations, and two different questionnaires on group relations in childhood. Familial versus communal sleeping in early childhood was not a significant predictor of adult attachment outcome. However, a more caring peer group was related to later attachment security, and compensated for lower care by parents. Higher overprotection of the peer group was predictive of later social anxious/ambivalence and personal preoccupation. The study supports the idea of a network of attachment. Implications for the theory of attachment, and for social work policy and practice are provided.

Copyright National Association of Social Workers, Incorporated Dec 2004

Source: Social Work Abstracts

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