Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities 

Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Social workers understand that assessment is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in the assessment of diverse clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand methods of assessment with diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness. Social workers recognize the implications of the larger practice context in the assessment process and value the importance of inter-professional collaboration in this process. Social workers understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making. Social workers: 

• collect and organize data, and apply critical thinking to interpret information from clients and constituencies; 

• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and constituencies;

• develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives based on the critical assessment of strengths, needs, and challenges within clients and constituencies; and

• select appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and values and preferences of clients and constituencies

Introduction: Compentcy seven explains the importance of the assessment process for diverse clients in the social work field.  Artifact 1: Issue Assessment Presentation on local homelessness and a lack of affordable housing in the Grand Rapids area.  Artifact 2: Crisis Intervention presentation on a case study we created as a group. 

Conclusion: Throughout my social work education, I have grown by demonstrating an increased ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with clients, colleagues, and others. I also want to improve my listening skills, empathy, and cultural competency and build solid therapeutic relationships. This is also shown by actively seeking feedback and engaging in reflective practice throughout my social work classes with group projects. It will help in the social work field, creating treatment plans for families and how to provide the right resources.