In This Module Overview You Learned That Human Services Com

In This Modules Overview You Learned That Human Services Come In Man

In this module's overview, you learned that human services come in many different forms. There are different philosophies guiding this work that, at times, might conflict with one another. This is particularly true when the direct service provider's personal values, typically based on his or her cultural experiences and education and training, conflict with the theoretical approach favored by the agency. In addition, you examined the moral and regulatory influences on the direct services provided to the clients. In this assignment, you will examine the differences in the philosophies of human services workers and their organizations.

You will also research on the two theoretical approaches used by human services agencies in service delivery. Tasks: Using your textbook, the Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet, discuss the following points: Discuss the influence of the competing views between the personal values and morals of the human services direct service provider that guide his or her work compared to that of the philosophy and theoretical approach of an organization in a professional environment. Cite some relevant examples to support your answer. Discuss the two theoretical approaches that are used by human services agencies to provide direct services. Submission Details: By Saturday, November 28, 2015 , post your responses to this Discussion Area in a minimum of 200 words.

Your response should rely upon at least two sources from professional literature. This may include the Argosy University online library resources, relevant textbooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, and websites created by professional organizations, agencies, or institutions (.edu, .org, or .gov). Write in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrate ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources (i.e., APA format); and use accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Paper For Above instruction

The field of human services is characterized by a complex interplay between personal values, professional ethics, and organizational philosophies. Human service practitioners often find themselves navigating the tension between their individual moral beliefs and the organizational frameworks within which they operate. This dichotomy can influence the quality and consistency of service delivery, impacting both client outcomes and the professional integrity of the worker.

Personal values and morals often shape a human service provider’s approach to client interactions. For example, a counselor with strong religious beliefs may focus heavily on spiritual aspects of healing, which could conflict with an organization’s emphasis on cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes evidence-based practices. Such discrepancies can create ethical dilemmas—whether the practitioner should adhere strictly to organizational policies or honor personal convictions. Conversely, organizational philosophies are typically grounded in broader ethical standards, regulations, and theoretical models designed to ensure consistency, fairness, and cultural competence in service delivery.

These differing influences can sometimes lead to conflicts, especially when personal beliefs do not align with organizational mandates. An example is a social worker who personally opposes abortion but works within a facility that provides reproductive health services, including family planning options. The worker may experience internal conflict between their personal morals and organizational policies promoting client autonomy and choice, which is consistent with the principles of human rights-based approaches in social work (Reamer, 2018). Such instances underscore the importance of professional training that emphasizes ethical standards such as those outlined by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), which advocates for respect for clients' self-determination while maintaining personal integrity.

Regarding theoretical approaches used by human services agencies, two prominent models are the Medical Model and the Strengths-Based Model. The Medical Model views clients through a pathology lens, focusing on diagnosing and treating mental health or behavioral issues, emphasizing clinical interventions and professional expertise (Gitterman & Knight, 2013). Conversely, the Strengths-Based Model emphasizes clients’ resilience and resources, fostering empowerment and collaborative problem-solving (Saleebey, 2013). Agencies adopting the Medical Model often prioritize clinical assessments, treatment plans, and symptom management, which can benefit clients with complex psychological needs. On the other hand, the Strengths-Based Model encourages agency staff to recognize and build upon clients' innate capabilities, promoting self-efficacy and long-term recovery (Liu & Dedeoglu, 2020). Both approaches have their merits and are often integrated within practice depending upon client needs and organizational philosophy.

In conclusion, the effectiveness of human services relies heavily on understanding and managing the dynamic between personal ethics and organizational philosophies. Agencies often adopt different theoretical models to address diverse client populations, and practitioners must balance personal morals with professional standards to uphold ethical, culturally competent, and effective service delivery.

References

  • Gitterman, A., & Knight, C. (2013). The Life Model of Social Work Practice. Columbia University Press.
  • Liu, Y., & Dedeoglu, B. (2020). Strengths-Based Approaches in Human Services. Journal of Social Work Practice, 34(2), 159-171.
  • Reamer, F. (2018). Ethical Standards in Social Work: A Review of the NASW Code of Ethics. Journal of Social Service Research, 44(3), 359-370.
  • Saleebey, D. (2013). The Strengths Perspective in Social Work Practice (6th ed.). Pearson.