Theory can enrich our sense of how people behave and find meaning in their daily lives. Theory also plays an important role in social work research, as it does in social work practice. It helps direct our inquiry into those areas that seem more likely to show useful patterns and explanations. Theory also helps distinguish between chance occurrences and observations that have value in anticipating future occurrences. 

As a social worker, you will apply theory to your research and practice. For example, imagine a fellow social worker tells you that they allowed a young boy to play with small toys in a sand tray and non-directively commented to him on the themes of his play. Child development theory can explain the importance of this interaction. However, without considering theory, you might flounder in your practice, trying anything anyone told you in the hopes of finding something that works.

In this Discussion, you explain social work theories and how this may affect your practice as a social worker.

Required Readings

Monette, D. R., Sullivan, T. J., DeJong, C. R., & Hilton, T. P. (2014). Applied social research: A tool for the human services (9th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.

• Chapter 2, (e Logic of Social Research(pp. 198)
• Post:
  • What are the purpose and major functions of theories in social work research?
  • Describe how this knowledge will affect your practice in social work.