The terms "lifeworld" and "lifeworld orientation" are in constant use and seem to be omnipresent. The lifeworld seems to be taken for granted, as it is hardly ever discussed in detail or concretely distinguished from other terms such as "everyday life" or "social space".
The concept of lifeworld orientation plays a major role in social education, especially in child and family welfare. At the latest since the Eighth Youth Report, the so-called lifeworld orientation has been considered a central paradigm of youth welfare.
Above all, the educator Hans Thiersch, who was also involved in the preparation of this report, coined the term "lifeworld orientation". The discussion of lifeworld-oriented social work was triggered by changes in society. Today, coping with everyday life requires many more preconditions, such as self- and social competence, assertiveness or self-confidence, than in earlier decades, when gender and generational roles, educational, health and nutritional concepts as well as career paths were still predetermined by stable traditions and social relations.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Life world and life world orientation
- The concept of life-world-oriented social work
- THE CONCEPT AS AN INTERPLAY OF 4 DIFFERENT SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS
- Hermeneutic-pragmatic pedagogy
- Phenomenological-interactionist paradigm
- Critical everyday theory
- Analysis of social structures
- DIMENSIONS OF LIFE WORLD ANALYSIS
- STRUCTURAL AND ACTION MAXIMS OF A LIFE-WORLD-ORIENTED SOCIAL WORK
- CORE IDEAS OF THE CONCEPT
- Consequences of the concept
- DEMANDS ON INSTITUTIONS AND SPECIALIST STAFF
- LIMITS AND OPPORTUNITIES OF LIFE-WORLD-ORIENTED SOCIAL WORK
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This thesis aims to explore the concept of life-world-oriented social work, examining its theoretical underpinnings and practical implications. It investigates how this approach addresses the changing needs of individuals within the context of societal shifts and increasing social inequalities.
- The definition and theoretical framework of "life world" and "life-world orientation."
- The core principles and dimensions of life-world-oriented social work.
- The demands this approach places on institutions and social workers.
- The limitations and opportunities presented by a life-world-oriented approach.
- The application of this concept within the context of social work practice.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory chapter establishes the context for the thesis by discussing the prevalent yet often vaguely defined terms "life world" and "life-world orientation." It highlights the increasing importance of life-world orientation in social pedagogy, particularly in youth welfare, tracing its emergence from the Eighth Youth Report and the work of Hans Thiersch. The chapter emphasizes the changing societal landscape, with increased individualization and social inequalities demanding new approaches to social work.
Life world and life world orientation: This chapter delves into the phenomenological sociological concept of "life world," as introduced by E. Husserl. It defines life world as the pre-scientific, self-evident reality surrounding individuals, shaped by personal experience and perception. The chapter differentiates between life world as a taken-for-granted reality and as a reality requiring effort to navigate, emphasizing the complexities inherent in this concept and its relevance to social work's engagement with clients' lived experiences.
The concept of life-world-oriented social work: This chapter presents the central concept of life-world-oriented social work. It explains how this approach focuses on understanding individuals within the totality of their circumstances, resources, and challenges. The chapter contrasts this approach with traditional problem-focused interventions, emphasizing the importance of dialogical, holistic approaches that aim to empower individuals to improve their lives and build sustainable skills. The chapter lays out the scientific concepts underpinning the life-world approach.
Consequences of the concept: This chapter examines the practical implications of life-world-oriented social work. It analyzes the demands this approach places on institutions and social workers, highlighting the need for a shift in institutional structures and professional practices. Furthermore, it explores both the limits and opportunities presented by this approach, providing a balanced perspective on its applicability and potential.
Keywords
Life-world orientation, social work, phenomenology, social pedagogy, youth welfare, individualization, social inequality, client-centered approach, institutional change, empowerment.
Frequently Asked Questions: Life-World-Oriented Social Work
What is the main topic of this text?
This text provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of "life-world-oriented social work." It explores the theoretical foundations, practical implications, and challenges of this approach within the field of social work.
What is the structure of the text?
The text is structured into several sections: a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. Each section provides a detailed explanation of the concept, its underpinnings, and its applications within the context of social work practice.
What are the key themes explored in the text?
Key themes include the definition and theoretical framework of "life world" and "life-world orientation," the core principles and dimensions of life-world-oriented social work, the demands placed on institutions and social workers by this approach, its limitations and opportunities, and its application in social work practice. The text also discusses the impact of societal shifts, such as increased individualization and social inequalities, on the need for this approach.
What are the theoretical underpinnings of life-world-oriented social work?
The text draws upon various theoretical concepts, including phenomenological sociology (especially the work of E. Husserl), hermeneutic-pragmatic pedagogy, the phenomenological-interactionist paradigm, critical everyday theory, and social structure analysis. These concepts are interwoven to create a holistic understanding of the individual within their life world.
How does life-world-oriented social work differ from traditional approaches?
Unlike traditional problem-focused interventions, life-world-oriented social work emphasizes a holistic and dialogical approach. It focuses on understanding individuals within the totality of their circumstances, resources, and challenges, aiming to empower them to improve their lives and build sustainable skills.
What are the demands of life-world-oriented social work on institutions and social workers?
The text argues that this approach requires significant changes in institutional structures and professional practices. It necessitates a shift towards more client-centered, empowering interventions that consider the individual's lived experience and context.
What are the limitations and opportunities presented by a life-world-oriented approach?
The text acknowledges both the limitations and the potential benefits of this approach. While it recognizes potential challenges in implementation, it also highlights the opportunities for more effective and meaningful social work interventions.
What is the significance of the "life world" concept?
The "life world" is defined as the pre-scientific, self-evident reality surrounding individuals, shaped by personal experience and perception. Understanding the individual's "life world" is crucial for effective social work intervention.
What are the keywords associated with this concept?
Key terms include: Life-world orientation, social work, phenomenology, social pedagogy, youth welfare, individualization, social inequality, client-centered approach, institutional change, and empowerment.
Where does this approach originate from?
The text traces the emergence of life-world orientation in social pedagogy, particularly in youth welfare, linking it to the Eighth Youth Report and the work of Hans Thiersch. It highlights the evolving societal context which necessitates new approaches to social work.
- Quote paper
- Susann Bialas (Author), 2008, Lifeworld-Orientation in Social Work, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1152668
