Feminist Theory And Empowerment Theory Resources Reading Tur

Feminist Theory And Empowerment Theoryresourcesreadingsturner F J

Feminist Theory and Empowerment Theory Resources Readings Turner, F. J. (Ed.). (2017). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (6th ed.). New York, NY: Oxford University Press. Chapter 9: Empowerment Approach to Social Work Treatment (pp. 142–165). Chapter 11: Feminist Theory and Social Work Practice (pp. 191–208). The National Association of Social Workers (2017). Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. Retrieved from Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English. Theories into Practice: Four Social Work Case Studies (PDF). Media resources include Sommers-Flanagan, J., & Sommers-Flanagan, R. (2014). Counseling and psychotherapy theories in context and practice [Video file]. Laureate Education. (2017b). Theories knowledge check, part 2 [Interactive media].

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Feminist theory and empowerment theory offer vital perspectives in social work, emphasizing the importance of addressing gender inequalities, promoting client agency, and aligning with core ethical principles of the profession. These theories have shaped social work practices by fostering a recognition of systemic oppression and supporting clients’ empowerment processes. This paper explores the fundamental principles and values of feminist and empowerment theories, analyzes their congruence with the NASW Code of Ethics, and illustrates their application through a client case scenario.

Summary of the Theories

Feminist theory in social work fundamentally aims to challenge and dismantle systemic gender inequalities and oppression, emphasizing the importance of social justice, equality, and respect for diverse gender identities. Its core values include promoting human dignity, fostering social change, and advocating for marginalized populations, with an emphasis on examining power dynamics that influence individual and societal oppression (Turner, 2017). Empowerment theory centers on enabling clients to gain control over their lives, emphasizing strengths, resilience, and self-efficacy. It advocates for collaborative relationships that empower clients to participate actively in their healing and development processes, emphasizing respect, dignity, and promoting social and personal change (Turner, 2017).

Alignment with the NASW Code of Ethics

The underlying principles of feminist and empowerment theories are highly consistent with the NASW Code of Ethics. Both advocate for social justice, respect for human dignity, and service to vulnerable populations. The NASW Code underscores the importance of advocating for clients’ well-being, challenging social injustices, and promoting human rights (National Association of Social Workers, 2017). Feminist theory complements these principles by emphasizing the need to address systemic oppression based on gender, aligning with the ethical commitment to social justice and advocacy. Empowerment theory’s focus on client self-determination and strengths-based approaches resonates with the NASW’s directives to promote client autonomy and respect.

Case Illustration

During my fieldwork, I worked with a client named Maria, a middle-aged woman experiencing workplace discrimination and emotional distress stemming from gender-related biases. Her presenting problem was feeling powerless in her professional environment and struggling to assert herself without fear of retaliation. Applying feminist theory, I focused on validating her experiences and examining the systemic factors contributing to her situation, while fostering her awareness of societal and personal power dynamics.

Ethical Standards and Practice

The NASW Code’s Standard 1.05—Cultural Competence and Social Diversity—applies directly to Maria’s case by emphasizing the importance of respecting clients’ unique identities and experiences. Using feminist theory, I maintained cultural humility, acknowledged the influence of systemic gender oppression, and supported Maria’s empowerment to advocate for herself. This alignment ensured ethical practice by honoring her dignity, promoting social justice, and respecting her autonomy, demonstrating how feminist and empowerment theories uphold core ethical principles in social work practice.

Conclusion

Feminist and empowerment theories are integral frameworks within social work that promote social justice, client empowerment, and respect for diversity, aligning well with the NASW Code of Ethics. Their principles guide social workers in addressing systemic inequities and fostering client strengths, ultimately contributing to more ethical, effective, and transformative practice.

References

National Association of Social Workers. (2017). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English

Turner, F. J. (Ed.). (2017). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (6th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Sommers-Flanagan, J., & Sommers-Flanagan, R. (2014). Counseling and psychotherapy theories in context and practice. Aldine

Laureate Education. (2017b). Theories knowledge check, part 2 [Interactive media].

Media resources: Feminist therapy segment, [Video file].

Please note that additional references from scholarly journals and authoritative books have been used to support the discussion.