Scientists and academics are repeatedly confronted with questions about the theories on which their work is based. Especially in relation to the relationship between theory and practice, the question arises as to what extent and whether theories are necessary at all in social work. To put it bluntly, the raison d'être of social work as a science and course of study at universities is also called into question here. If theories are not needed at all, why should social work be represented as a science at universities?
In this paper, I would therefore first like to deal with the concept of theory. Even though a general definition of the concept of theory in terms of scientific theory is difficult due to its complexity, an attempt will be made here to arrive at an initial understanding of the concept of theory. Based on this, we will then ask for criteria or definitions of theories of social work. The second part of this paper will then deal with a theory or a concept in the context of social work by way of example. The first question is about the basic assumptions of the concept of lifeworld orientation, its lines of tradition and its development. This is followed by a presentation of the dimensions represented within the concept of lifeworld orientation as well as the structural and action maxims on which lifeworld-oriented social work is based. Finally, before a brief concluding remark, the previously explained concept of lifeworld-oriented social work will be concretised using the example of social-pedagogical family assistance.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to the topic
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Attempts to determine a definition
1.2.1 The concept of theory
1.2.2 Theories of Social Work
2. The concept of life-world orientation
2.1 Basic assumptions
2.2 Traditional lines
2.3 Development of life-world orientation
2.4 Five accesses
2.5 Dimensions of life-world orientation
2.6 Structural and hand-oriented social work
3. Life-world-oriented social work in practice using the example of socio-educational family assistance
4. Concluding remarks
Objectives and Topics
This work examines the theoretical foundations of social work, with a specific focus on the concept of life-world orientation. It investigates how this concept can be applied as a practical framework for socio-educational family assistance, while critically evaluating the relationship between theory, practice, and systemic constraints in modern social welfare.
- The theoretical development and definition of social work as a discipline.
- The core principles and dimensions of life-world-oriented social work.
- Practical implementation strategies in family assistance services.
- Critical analysis of the tension between professional intervention and everyday life experiences.
- Integration of social-ethical standards and the challenge of systemic societal conditions.
Excerpt from the Book
1.1 Introduction
The other day I told an older acquaintance, who has held a management position in the Youth Welfare Office for years, about the fact that I now want to do my Master's degree in Social Work again while working, in order to be able to apply for a management position after graduation. He just shook his head and rolled his eyes: "Only unworldly people from the university can come up with something like this! Even more theory!" he said. It would be smarter if people who were keen on such a position were to be apprenticed to experienced performance people like him. They would learn far more for their future job.
Scientists and academics are repeatedly confronted with such questions about the theories underlying their work. Especially in relation to the relationship between theory and practice, the question arises to what extent and whether theories are necessary at all, especially in social work. To put it bluntly, the right of social work to exist as a science and course of study at universities is also doubted here. If theories are not needed at all, why should social work be represented as a science at universities?
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction to the topic: This chapter introduces the ongoing tension between academic theory and practical application in social work, setting the stage for a detailed examination of theoretical concepts.
2. The concept of life-world orientation: This section provides an in-depth analysis of life-world orientation, covering its historical roots, basic assumptions, and the six core dimensions that shape professional intervention.
3. Life-world-oriented social work in practice using the example of socio-educational family assistance: This chapter bridges theory and practice by concretizing the life-world approach through the lens of family support services.
4. Concluding remarks: The final chapter summarizes the findings, highlighting the necessity of combining a life-world perspective with a broader systemic understanding of societal structures.
Keywords
Social Work, Life-world Orientation, Theory-Practice Relationship, Socio-educational Family Assistance, Social Pedagogy, Professional Intervention, Everyday Life, Systemic Constraints, Social Justice, Empowerment, Reflexive Modernity, Risk Society, Pedagogy, Social Policy, Human Rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this work?
The work focuses on the theoretical foundations of social work and the practical application of the life-world orientation concept in contemporary social welfare practice.
What are the central themes covered?
Key themes include the definition of theory in social work, the historical development of life-world orientation, dimensions of practical professional action, and the specific application within family support services.
What is the primary research goal?
The goal is to determine how life-world orientation functions as a theoretical framework and how it can be effectively implemented in daily practice to address the needs of families.
Which scientific methods are utilized?
The work employs a literature-based conceptual analysis, drawing on established theoretical discourses and pedagogical traditions to synthesize a coherent understanding of life-world-oriented social work.
What does the main body address?
The main body systematically explores theoretical definitions, the "life-world" concept, and provides a case study of socio-educational family assistance to illustrate these principles in action.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Major keywords include Social Work, Life-world Orientation, Social Pedagogy, Professional Intervention, and Empowerment.
How does the author view the role of the family helper?
The author views the family helper as a facilitator who must respect the client's own world, maintain professional boundaries, and focus on expanding the family's existing strengths rather than imposing external norms.
What is the "life-world orientation" approach?
It is a professional framework that views social problems not as deficits, but as an interaction of lived experiences, and emphasizes the reconstruction of everyday routines to empower individuals within their specific social environment.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Daniela Geib (Autor:in), 2009, Theories of Social Work. The Concept of Lifeworld Orientation, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1161617
