Course Description
An ecological systems perspective for understanding human
development and behavior in contemporary contexts. Students will
acquire an understanding of foundational theories of human
behavior, biological, psychological, and social dimensions of
normative development over the lifespan, and the effects of
oppression across multiple social systems.
Athena Title
Human Behav in Social Environ
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in SOWK 5340E
Prerequisite
(SOWK 2154 or SOWK 2154S) and SOWK 2155 and (SOWK 2156 or SOWK 2156E) and permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring and summer
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will be able to state the rationale for theory and research based social work practice.
- Students will be able to critically evaluate several theories used to describe human behavior.
- Students will be able to define human diversity and identify the risks to and strengths of several non-majority identificational communities.
- Students will be able to identify and describe key terms associated with the ecosystems perspective.
- Students will be able to analyze the well-being of individuals from an ecosystems perspective.
- Students will be able to analyze the well-being of families from an ecosystems perspective.
Topical Outline
- I. The ecosystems perspective and social work practice
- II. Community as a context for human development
A. Types of communities
B. Ethnic communities in America
C. The gay and lesbian community
D. Religious communities
E. Place-based communities
- III. Family as a context for human development
A. Family as an enduring social institution
B. Diversity in family lifestyles
C. Family as a social organization
D. Family in space and over time
- IV. Life course and transitions of living
A. Parental influences and early life
B. Childhood and early adolescence
C. Early and middle adulthood
D. Later adulthood
Institutional Competencies
Critical Thinking
The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.
