SOWK 300: Human Behavior in the Social Environment: The Life Course
Prerequisites: PSYC 121, SOCY 110, or SOCY 121; Admission to SOWK major.
Credit Hours: (3)
This is one of two HBSE courses. Concepts are drawn from the social and behavioral
sciences to further our understanding of the human condition. This course focuses
on the life course perspective, understanding human bio-psycho-social-spiritual changes
and influences from conception to old age.
Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
Provides an intellectual foundation for the social work curriculum. The course builds upon concepts drawn from the social and behavioral sciences, human biology and philosophy for understanding the human condition. SOWK 300 is the first part of a two part sequence in the professional curriculum and focuses on the question of how we become who we are. The results of such inquiries form the basis for assessment in social work. Theories about the human condition that represent both objectivist and subjectivist schools are presented.
This course focuses upon the theories that are especially used in broadening our understanding of individuals. Those theories are critiqued in relationship to: 1)their fit with the values of human worth and dignity and community betterment; and 2) their accounting of the meanings of diversity in all of its forms. How the theories treat the concepts: discrimination, oppression, ethnicity, race, gender and sexual orientation are examined.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Concepts of free will versus determinism, nature versus nurture, and process versus outcome are addressed to understand people through professional theory.
Format - This course will utilize a variety of teaching techniques. Lectures, class discussion, in class exercise, outside projects, speakers, and videos will be utilized as appropriate.
Primary points related to objectivist theories are examined. Theories used to make informed assessments in social work are explored.
In addition to lecture and class discussions, informal writing assignments may include such exercises as summaries of reading assignments, responses to lectures and class discussions, and explanations of key concerns.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
1.Understand and apply theories and knowledge of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual person
2.Understand the life course perspective and theories related to the stages of the life course.
3.Analyze the impact of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, rural environments, and class on life span development.
4.Examine relevant theories and their compatibility with social work values and ethics, diversity, social and economic justice, and populations-at-risk as it relates to life course development.
Assessment Measures
I. Two objective-type examinations will test students’ understanding of social welfare
issues and policy alternatives.
II. Students will discuss primary documents that serve to familiarize students with
concepts related to public and private responsibility for social service provision
and reform.
III. Students participate in experiential group projects to enhance self-awareness
and sensitivity to cultural diversity and dynamics of human behavior.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
Revised, April 23, 2013
February 2005 Updated Steven Culver
Revised 2/5/09
March 01, 2021