Major Midterm PDF

Relationship of SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT AND THE sOcIAL WORK PROFESSION a **social environment** refers to the immediate physical and social setting in which people live or something happens or develops. it encompasses the culture the individuals are born into and the people and institutions they interac...

Relationship of SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT AND THE sOcIAL WORK PROFESSION a **social environment** refers to the immediate physical and social setting in which people live or something happens or develops. it encompasses the culture the individuals are born into and the people and institutions they interact with. social environment can greatly influence an individual\'s behavior, beliefs, and values. **social work** defined there have been many definitions of social work and all seem to be consistent about certain basic elements, as agreed upon bysocial work educators and practitioners alike. a most recent definition is offered by the international association of schools of social work (iassw) and the international federation of social workers (ifsw) in june 2001 which states: social functioning \"the social work profession promotess social change, problem solving in human relationships and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance well-being. utiljzing theories of human behavior and social systems, social work intervenes at the points where people interact with their environments. principles of human rights and social justice are fundamental to social work.\" an earlier definition by the national association of social workers (nasw 1999) as found in the revised code of ethics for social workers states: \"the primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well- being and help meet the basic human needs of all people, with particưlar attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. a historical and defining feature of social work is the profession\'s focus on individual well-being in the social context and the well- being of society. fundamental to social work is attention to the environmental forces that create, contribute to, and address problems in living.\" (social work journal, july 1999). such definitions consistently support a basic framework: \"social work is the professional activity of helping individuals, groups, or communities to enhance or restore their capacity for social functioning and to create societal conditions favorable to their goals.\" it emphasizes the purpose of social work as existing to enhance social functioning; improve quality of life by implementin g and enforcing tàe society\'s mandate for safe, effective, and constructive social services; and create changes in the environment that support and sustain social functioning. **the nurturing environment** (our immediate environment) is composed of people with whom a person interacts frequently and often in an intimate manner (e.g. family, friends, close associates at work or school). it is and through these relationships that a person develops a sense of dignity, belonging, and self-worth. **LEVELS OF SOCIAL WORK ASSESSMENT AND INTERVENTION** LEVELS MICRO-individuals, families, and small groups MEZZO-local and small community levels (ex. schools, neighborhoods, and city districts) MACRO-regional, national, or global. much larger scale (ex. policy and governmental systems) INTERVENTION MICRO-At this level, social workers work directly with their clients in very small groups or one on one. This level is the most intimate of the three levels of social work. MEZZO-Like the name suggests, "mezzo" is the middle level of social work. At this level, social workers can be found helping communities, schools, teams, or organizations. At the mezzo level you\'re more likely to collaborate across organizations and with other professionals than you would at other levels of social work. MACR0-Here, you're involved in the policy and governmental systems that play a larger role in the lives of entire communities and regions. At the macro level of social work, you'll often have a role in shaping the policies that inform work at the mezzo and micro levels. **STRUCTURAL FUNCTINAL/\ PERSPECTIVE** Focus: The Organization of society and the relationships between broad social units, such Institutional. The group is the unit of analysis: A group could be a crowd of people in a movie theater, or the members of a family sitting Around the dinner table, what some call '' smalls groups. The [Structural Functionalist Perspective] is a major theoretical framework in sociology that views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of social institutions and how they contribute to the overall functioning of society. - **Social Structures**: These are relatively stable patterns of social behavior that shape our lives. Examples include family, education, religion, government, and the economy. They provide order and predictability in our interactions. - **Social Functions**: Every social structure has consequences for the operation of society as a whole. These consequences are called functions. - **Functions can be:** - **Manifest Functions**: The intended or recognized consequences of a social process. - **Latent Functions**: The unintended or unrecognized consequences of a social process. - **Dysfunctions**: Social processes that have undesirable consequences for the operation of society. - **Interdependence**: All parts of society are interconnected and rely on each other for survival. - **Equilibrium**: Society strives for a state of balance and order. When disruptions occur, mechanisms exist to restore equilibrium. - **Social Cohesion**: Shared values, beliefs, and norms bind individuals together, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. **Historical development** [Herbert Spencer( 1820-1903]) - (born April 27, 1820, [Derby](https://www.britannica.com/place/Derby-city-and-unitary-authority-England), Derbyshire, England---died December 8, 1903, Brighton, Sussex) was an English sociologist and philosopher, an early advocate of the theory of evolution, who achieved an influential synthesis of knowledge, advocating the preeminence of the individual over society and of science over religion.  -Spencer compared society to a biological organism, arguing that just as the different organs of the body work together to keep the organism alive, so too do the different parts of society work together to maintain its stability. [**Emile Durkheim** ] (born April 15, 1858, [][Éspinal](https://www.britannica.com/place/Epinal), France---died November 15, 1917, Paris) was a French social scientist who developed a vigorous methodology combining empirical research with sociological theory. He is widely regarded as the founder of the French school of sociology. He emphasized the importance of social facts, which are the laws, morals, values, and customs that govern social life. He believed that social facts serve functions within society, contributing to its stability. **[Talcott Parsons (1902- 1979)]**  (December 13, 1902 -- May 8, 1979) was an American [sociologist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sociologist) of the [classical tradition](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sociology), best known for his [social action theory](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_action_theory) and [structural functionalism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_functionalism). Parsons developed a complex theory of social action, emphasizing the importance of shared values and norms in maintaining social order. He argued that social systems must meet certain functional prerequisites, such as adaptation, goal attainment, integration, and latency, to survive. EXAMPLES: 1. Education: The manifest function of education is to transmit knowledge and skills. Latent functions include socialization, creating social networks, and delaying entry into the workforce. Dysfunctions might include dropping out, bullying, or unequal access to quality education. 2. 2\. Religion: The manifest function of religion is to provide spiritual guidance and meaning. Latent functions include social control, community building, and providing a sense of belonging. Dysfunctions might include religious conflict or intolerance. 3. 3\. Family: The manifest function of the family is to provide care and support for its members. Latent functions include socialization, emotional support, and transmitting cultural values. Dysfunctions might include domestic violence, child abuse, or divorce.   The Structural Functionalist Perspective offers a valuable framework for understanding how different parts of society work together to maintain stability. However, it\'s important to acknowledge its limitations and consider other theoretical perspectives that offer alternative explanations for social phenomena.  **\ Right -- based perspective** The [right-based perspective] is a fundamental approach to understanding and addressing social issues. It emphasizes the inherent rights and entitlements of individuals, arguing that these rights should be protected and promoted to ensure a just and equitable society. This perspective contrasts with other approaches, such as the needs-based perspective, which focuses on identifying and addressing the needs of individuals and communities. **Universal Applicability:** Rights are universal and apply to all individuals, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other characteristic. **Inalienable Rights:** Rights cannot be taken away or surrendered. They are fundamental and essential for human dignity and well-being. **Accountability:** States and other actors have a responsibility to uphold and protect individual rights. They are accountable for ensuring that these rights are respected and fulfilled. **Participation:** Individuals have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives and to hold those in power accountable for their actions. Here\'s an example of a key principle of the rights-based perspective in action, focusing on the principle of **non-discrimination**: **Scenario:\*** A young woman named Sarah applies for a job at a tech company. She is highly qualified, with a strong academic background and relevant work experience. However, during the interview, the hiring manager makes several comments about her appearance and asks questions about her marital status and plans to have children. Sarah is ultimately not offered the job, despite her qualifications. **Rights-Based Perspective:** **Non-discrimination:\*** Sarah\'s rights have been violated because she was discriminated against based on her gender and personal circumstances. The hiring manager\'s comments and questions were inappropriate and irrelevant to her job qualifications. **Equality:** Sarah has the right to be treated equally to male applicants, and her gender should not be a factor in the hiring decision. **Justice:** Sarah has the right to a fair and impartial hiring process, free from discrimination **Action:** Sarah could file a complaint with the relevant authorities, such as an equal opportunities commission or labor tribunal. The company could be held accountable for its discriminatory practices and required to implement policies to prevent future discrimination. **Benefits of the Right-Based Perspective:** **Focus on Individual Dignity:** It prioritizes the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. **Promotion of Equality:** It promotes equality by ensuring that all individuals have equal access to rights and opportunities. **Accountability and Transparency:** It holds governments and other actors accountable for upholding human rights. **Empowerment of Individuals:** It empowers individuals to claim their rights and participate in decision-making processes. **Challenges of the Right-Based Perspective:** **Defining and Enforcing Rights:** Defining and enforcing rights can be complex and challenging, especially in diverse and rapidly changing societies. **Balancing Rights:** Balancing individual rights with the rights of others and the needs of society can be difficult. **Implementation and Enforcement:** Ensuring the effective implementation and enforcement of rights requires political will, resources, and commitment. Here are some examples of challenges to the rights-based perspective, focusing on the idea of human rights: **Enforcement and Implementation:** **Challenge:** Ensuring that human rights are actually respected and enforced is a major challenge. States and international organizations often struggle to effectively protect human rights, especially in situations of conflict, poverty, or authoritarian regimes. **Example:** The Universal Declaration of Human Rights has been widely adopted, but many countries still violate its provisions, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. **Balancing Rights:** **Challenge:** Different rights can sometimes conflict with each other, requiring difficult decisions about how to balance them. For example, the right to freedom of speech may clash with the right to privacy or the right to protect national security. **Example:** The right to free speech is often limited in cases of hate speech or incitement to violence. The right-based perspective provides a powerful framework for promoting social justice and ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to live with dignity and freedom. By recognizing and upholding the inherent rights of all individuals, we can create a more just and equitable world. **GENERAL SYSTEMS THEORY** **General Systems Theory (GST)** was originally proposed by Austrian biologist **Ludwig von Bertalanffy** in the 1940s. Bertalanffy sought to establish a theory that could explain how different parts of a system interact and function together as a whole. Unlike reductionist approaches that break down systems into isolated parts, GST views the entire system in a holistic manner. The theory posits that systems---whether biological, social, or mechanical---consist of interrelated and interdependent parts. These parts work together to maintain stability and function as a unified whole. The approach is interdisciplinary, meaning it applies to various fields such as biology, engineering, sociology, and social work. **System:** A set of interrelated parts that function as a whole. **Subsystem:** Smaller units within the system that work together to fulfill the system\'s purpose. **Boundaries:** Divides the system from its external environment and defines what is part of the system. **Homeostasis:** The tendency of a system to maintain balance and stability in its functioning. **Input and Output:** A system takes in resources or information (input), processes it, and produces a product or result (output). **Feedback:** Information about the output that influences the functioning of the system, helping to maintain homeostasis or change. **Equifinality:** The idea that a system can achieve the same goal through different means or processes. - **Family Systems:** A family can be viewed as a system where each member (subsystem) plays a role. For example, the father may be responsible for income, the mother for caregiving, and the children for various household responsibilities. Any disruption in one part of the system (e.g., the father losing a job) will impact the other parts of the system (e.g., financial stress affects the entire family). - **Organizations:** Social service agencies are systems that have input (e.g., funding, staff) and output (e.g., services provided). Feedback, such as client satisfaction or program evaluations, can influence how services are delivered. **General Systems Theory** emphasizes the interconnectedness of components within any system and focuses on understanding the relationships between them. - In social work, this helps professionals view individuals and families within the context of their environments, allowing for a more holistic intervention. The approach acknowledges that issues cannot be fully understood or resolved in isolation, as they are often part of a larger, more complex system. **Ecological Systems Theory (EST)** Was developed by psychologist **Urie Bronfenbrenner** in 1979. The theory highlights the complex layers of environment that influence an individual\'s development and behavior. Bronfenbrenner believed that in order to understand human behavior, one must examine the broader social environment, rather than focusing solely on the individual. This theory is widely used in social work and psychology to understand the dynamic interaction between individuals and their environments. Bronfenbrenner initially proposed four layers (later adding a fifth), representing different aspects of an individual\'s life that shape their development. **Microsystem:** The immediate environment that directly interacts with the individual (e.g., family, friends, school, work). This level is most influential and has direct impact on the person. **Mesosystem:** The interactions between the microsystems (e.g., how a person\'s family life influences their school performance or how workplace experiences affect relationships at home). **Exosystem:** External settings that indirectly influence the individual (e.g., a parent\'s workplace, community resources). The individual does not directly interact with these settings, but they still have an impact on their life. **Macrosystem:** The broader societal, cultural, and legal influences that shape the individual\'s environment (e.g., cultural values, economic policies, political systems). **Chronosystem:** The dimension of time, which considers the life transitions, historical events, or environmental changes over the life course (e.g., growing up during a pandemic, experiencing parental divorce during adolescence). **Examples in Social Work** - **Child Development:** A social worker examining a child\'s developmental issues might analyze the influence of their family (microsystem), the relationship between the school and the family (mesosystem), the impact of a parent\'s job loss (exosystem), societal attitudes towards poverty (macrosystem), and the child\'s experiences over time (chronosystem). **Community Interventions:** When addressing community violence, a social worker can consider the interaction of various systems. For example, they may work to strengthen family relationships (microsystem), create partnerships between schools and community centers (mesosystem), address unemployment in the area (exosystem), and advocate for systemic changes (macrosystem). **Ecological Systems Theory** offers a multifaceted approach to understanding individuals within the context of their broader environment. It acknowledges that no single factor is responsible for behavior or development; instead, behavior is influenced by multiple layers of environmental factors. This theory is particularly useful in social work because it helps practitioners assess not only the individual but also the family, community, and societal structures that contribute to the individual's well-being. It emphasizes the importance of intervention at multiple levels (individual, family, community, policy) to create lasting change. **Comparison Between General Systems Theory and Ecological Systems Theory** **Focus:** GST focuses on the holistic functioning of a system as a whole and its interrelated parts, while EST focuses on how an individual interacts with different layers of their environment. **Application:** Both theories are applied to understand complex dynamics in various contexts. GST is often used in organizational and family systems analysis, while EST is applied to understand individual development within broader social and environmental contexts. **Interconnectedness:** Both theories emphasize the interconnectedness of parts within a system or environment and are concerned with how changes in one part affect the whole. Both General Systems Theory and Ecological Systems Theory provide valuable frameworks for understanding human behavior within a social context. GST offers a broad perspective on how systems function, while EST zeroes in on the layers of the environment that influence individual development. These theories are instrumental in social work practice, guiding professionals to create interventions that are not only individual-focused but also consider the broader social, environmental, and systemic factors at play. Societal Forces Influencing Family, Group, and Community Behavior Family A social unit consisting of individuals who are related by blood, marriage, or adoption, and who share a common residence and/or emotional bond. Families can also be defined by their functions, such as: - Providing emotional support and care - Sharing resources and responsibilities - Socializing children and teaching values - Offering a sense of belonging and identity Group a collection of individuals who share a common interest, goal, or activity. Groups can be formal or informal, and can range in size from a few people to thousands of individuals. Some common types of groups include: - Social groups: Friends, classmates, or colleagues - Task-oriented groups: Teams or committees formed to accomplish a specific task or project. - Interest-based groups: People who share a common hobby, passion, or interest. Community A larger social unit that consists of individuals who share a common geographic location, culture, or identity. Communities can be defined by: - Geographic boundaries- neighborhood, town, city, or region. - Cultural identity- shared culture, language, or heritage. - Shared interests- community of people who share a common interest or passion social factors Elements that shape human interactions and societal structures, Norms, values, and expectations within society that dictate acceptable behavior and influence social roles and interactions. - **Cultural norms**: For example, in some cultures, family is considered very important, and individuals are expected to prioritize family obligations over personal goals. - **Social institutions**: Social institutions, such as education and religion, can shape an individual\'s beliefs and values. For instance, religious institutions can influence an individual\'s moral values and beliefs - **Social relationships**: Social relationships, including friendships and romantic relationships, can impact an individual\'s behavior and lifestyle. For example, peer pressure from friends can influence an individual\'s behavior and decision-making. - Family roles are shaped by societal expectations, such as the traditional nuclear family model or extended family systems in collectivist cultures. - Social norms influence child-rearing practices, marriage expectations, and family structures. - Influence on Groups: - Peer pressure and group dynamics are guided by what is considered acceptable behavior within a society. For example, social expectations can influence behavior in youth groups, professional teams, or religious congregations. - Influence on Communities: - Communities form based on shared social values, like religious beliefs or mutual economic interests. These shared values lead to social cohesion or, in contrast, exclusion of those who do not conform to the dominant social norms. Social workers must be attuned to these norms when developing interventions. For instance, in a patriarchal community, social workers may advocate for women\'s empowerment programs while still respecting cultural sensitivities. **Political forces** encompass laws, policies, and government structures that shape social organization and access to resources. Influence on Families: \- Political policies can directly affect family well-being through legislation on issues such as marriage rights, family leave policies, access to social welfare, and healthcare. -Families living under authoritarian regimes may experience limited freedom of expression or movement, impacting their structure and decision-making processes. Influence on Groups: \> Political engagement, such as voting or participating in protests, is shaped by a group\'s access to political power and their rights within the political system. \>Political oppression can lead to the formation of resistance groups or solidarity movements advocating for change. Influence on Communities: \>Communities living in conflict zones or under corrupt governments may develop parallel structures (such as informal justice systems, BJS/ KP) to manage local governance. Influence on Communities: - Political stability or instability can shape community organization and trust in government institutions. - Social workers often advocate for policy reforms, particularly in areas like housing, healthcare, or child protection. They may also work on the ground with communities to strengthen local governance and participation. Cultural & Thecnology Cultural Forces \"Cultural forces include the values, traditions, customs, and practices that shape how people think and act. In families, culture often dictates roles and responsibilities. For instance, in many collectivist cultures, extended families live together, and elders are given a lot of respect and decision-making power In groups, shared cultural values can either bring people together or create divisions. For example, a group of immigrants who share a common language and heritage might form a close-knit support network. For communities, cultural forces are key to identity. Cultural festivals, religious practices, and traditional ceremonies can strengthen community bonds. As social workers, cultural competence is crucial. We need to understand and respect the cultural backgrounds of the families and communities we serve, ensuring that our interventions are sensitive to their values and traditions (Cross et al.\'s cultural competence framework).\" Technological Forces \"Technology has transformed the way families, groups, and communities interact (Manuel Castells\' theory of the network society). In families, technology like smartphones, social media, and video calls has made it easier to stay connected across distances. However, it has also created challenges, such as less face-to-face interaction within the home. In groups, technology facilitates communication and collaboration. Virtual groups, online forums, and social media networks have allowed people to connect around shared interests, regardless of geographic location. Communities have been greatly impacted by technology. It provides new opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic development. But at the same. time, the digital divide - the gap between those with access to technology and those without can exacerbate existing inequalities. Social workers use technology to reach more people, providing services like teletherapy or online case management. We also work to ensure that marginalized groups have access to technology so that they aren\'t left behind.\" PHYSICAL/ ENVIRONMENT FORCES, INTERSECTIONALITY OF GENDER, AND GENDER ANALYSIS **Physical/Environment forces**- refers to the tangible aspects of our surroundings that influence our lives and shape our experiences. **Intersectionality of gender-** means understanding how gender interacts with other social identities, like race, class, sexual orientation, ability, and more, to create unique experiences of privilege and oppression. GENDER ANALYSIS -is a powerful tool for understanding how gender shapes our world and for developing solutions that address systemic inequalities and promote a more just and equitable society. Power Relations Unequal distribution of power and resources within social system. Can manifest in various forms, including economic, political, social and cultural power. Participation Active involvement of individual and groups in decision-making processes and social activities. Responsibility and The obligation to act in a way that benefits other and contributes to common good Accountability- involves being answerablw for one's actions and decisions. **THE USE OF THE CONCEPT OF SOCIAL FUNCTIONING IN UNDERSTANDING FAMILIES GROUP AND COMMUNITY** Social Functioning in Families Definition: Social functioning in families refers to how family members interact, fulfill their roles, and adapt to changes. It involves the family\'s ability to communicate, support each other, and manage conflicts. Importance: Assessment of Family Dynamics: By understanding how family members communicate and support each other, social workers can identify strengths and areas needing improvement. For instance, families with effective communication skills are generally better at resolving conflicts and maintaining a supportive environment. Example: Consider a family where communication is poor and conflicts frequently arise. A social worker might assess the family\'s communication patterns and provide counseling or workshops to improve these skills. Intervention Design: Interventions can be tailored based on the family\'s functioning. If a family struggles with managing stress or conflicts, social workers might introduce strategies or tools to enhance their coping mechanisms. Example: A family experiencing economic hardship might receive financial assistance but also benefit from interventions aimed at improving family dynamics, such as conflict resolution training. Resource Allocation: Understanding family functioning helps in determining the types of resources needed. For example, a family facing economic difficulties and relational stress might need both financial support and family counseling. Social Functioning in Groups Definition: Social functioning in groups involves the ability of group members to work together effectively, achieve common goals, and manage internal dynamics. This includes aspects like cohesion, role distribution, and leadership. Importance: Understanding Group Dynamics: Social workers need to grasp how well a group functions to facilitate effective group interventions. This includes recognizing the roles of various members, understanding group cohesion, and managing power dynamics. Example: In a support group for individuals with chronic illness, understanding group dynamics helps the social worker facilitate discussions, ensure everyone\'s voice is heard, and address any conflicts that arise. Enhancing Group Functioning: Social workers can use knowledge of group functioning to improve group effectiveness. Interventions might include team- building exercises or leadership training to address issues like poor communication or lack of cohesion. Example: If a group project team is struggling with communication, a social worker might introduce structured communication exercises or provide training on collaborative problem-solving. Evaluating Effectiveness: Assessing how well a group meets its goals and manages its tasks allows social workers to evaluate and adjust interventions as needed. Social Functioning in Communities Definition: Social functioning in communities refers to the ability of community members to work together to address collective needs, maintain social cohesion, and solve problems. Importance: Community Assessment: Understanding how well a community functions helps social workers identify its strengths and challenges. For example, a community with strong social networks and active engagement is more likely to effectively address collective issues. Example: In a community facing high rates of unemployment, assessing social networks and engagement levels can guide interventions like job training programs or community support initiatives. Community Development: Social workers can use their understanding of community functioning to design programs that enhance community engagement and address specific needs. Example: If a community lacks access to recreational facilities, social workers might advocate for the development of parks or community centers to improve social cohesion and overall well-being. Policy and Advocacy: By assessing community functioning, social workers can advocate for policies that support community development and address systemic issues \"In summary, the concept of social functioning is integral to social work practice. By understanding how families, groups, and communities perform their roles and manage challenges, social workers can design more effective interventions and support systems. This approach ensures that interventions are tailored to the specific needs and dynamics of each social unit, leading to more impactful and sustainable outcomes.\" 1\. Constitutional Provisions Definition and Historical Context: Traditional Definition: Traditionally, constitutions and family laws often defined families as a nuclear unit consisting of a married heterosexual couple and their biological children. This definition was influenced by societal norms and historical legal frameworks. Modern Developments: Philippine Constitution: The 1987 Philippine Constitution emphasizes the family as the basic autonomous social institution. It mandates the state to protect and strengthen the family, reflecting a broader recognition of various family structures. For example, the constitution supports the family\'s role in nation-building and emphasizes family welfare, but it does not explicitly define family beyond traditional forms. Philippine Constitution 2\. Revised Family Laws and Policies Definition and Historical Context: Traditional Family Laws: Historically, family laws focused on regulating marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance within the framework of traditional family structures. Modern Revisions: Family Code of the Philippines: Enacted in 1987, this code governs various aspects of family relations, including marriage, divorce, legal separation, and child custody. It has been updated to address issues like the rights of children and the dissolution of marriage, reflecting a shift towards more inclusive family definitions. Family Code of the Philippines UK Family Law: The UK has made significant revisions to family law, including the Civil Partnership Act 2004, which provided legal recognition for same-sex couples, and the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013, which allowed same-sex couples to marry. These changes reflect a broader and more inclusive understanding of family relationships. UK Government on Family Law Traditional Norms: Historically, societal norms and family roles were rigid, with well-defined expectations for gender roles and family structures. Modern Perspectives: Blended Families: The rise of blended families, where one or both partners have children from previous relationships, demonstrates a shift towards recognizing diverse family arrangements. Single-Parent Families: The increasing prevalence and acceptance of single- parent families highlight the changing norms. Support systems and policies have evolved to address the unique challenges faced by single parents, such as financial instability and social stigma. Extended and Chosen Families: There is growing recognition of extended families (including grandparents, aunts, uncles) and chosen families (close friends who act as family) as legitimate and valuable family forms. 4\. Implications for Social Work Understanding Diversity: Inclusive Practice: Social workers must recognize and respect the diversity of family structures. This includes understanding the unique needs and dynamics of various family forms, such as blended families, single-parent households, and same-sex couples. Tailored Interventions: Family Support Services: Social workers can design interventions that are relevant to diverse family structures. For example, providing parenting classes for blended families or financial counseling for single-parent households can address specific needs. Policy Advocacy: Social workers can advocate for policies that support diverse family forms and address systemic issues. This includes supporting legal reforms that recognize and protect various family structures and advocating for resources that address the unique challenges faced by non- traditional families. Examples of Practice: Blended Families: Social workers might offer counseling to help family members navigate the complexities of blending families, such as establishing new family roles and managing relationships between step-siblings. Single-Parent Households: Social workers can provide support services such as child care assistance, parenting support groups, and financial planning resources to help single parents manage their responsibilities. Conclusion: \"The definition of family has evolved to reflect changing societal norms, legal frameworks, and cultural practices. Understanding these changes is essential for social workers to provide effective and inclusive support. By staying informed about constitutional provisions, revised family laws, and shifting social norms, social workers can better address the needs of diverse family structures and Functions of the family and socialization in the family -A GROUP OF PEOPLE RELATED BY BLOOD, MARRIAGE, LAW OR CUSTOM A functional Family FULFILL THEIR AGREED UPON ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES \*Treat each other with respect an affection; and **\* Meet each other\'s needs** STABLE SATISFACTION OF SEXUAL NEEDS **\* SATISFACTION OF SEX INSTINCT BRINGS THE DESIRE FOR LIFE LONG PARTNERSHIP OF HUSBAND AND WIFE. SATISFACTION OF THIS SEX NEEDS IN A DESIRABLE WAY HELPS IN THE NORMAL DEVELOPMENT OF PERSONALITY** PROVISION OF HOME **\* IT IS ONLY A HOME THAT CHILDREN ARE BORN AND BROUGHT UP.** **\* Family and a home have no substitute** SOCIALIZATION \*SINCE CHILDREN SPEND MOST OF THEIR EARLY YEARS ONLY INTERACTING WITH THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS, THE FAMILY UNIT HAS THE GREATEST IMPACT DEVELOPMENT. Rules of Brhavior \* THESE TYPES OF CASES SHOW THAT HUMAN INTERACTION IS REQUIRED FOR CHILDREN TO ACQUIRE HUMAN BEHAVIOR. \* THE FAMILY TEACHES US TO APPRECIATE BEHAVIOR, WHAT TO EXPECT, AND HOW TO INTERACT EVERYDAY LIFE PATTERNS OF INTERACTIONS \* studies also show that children that have been deprived of close family relationships lead to emotional problems as adults. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT \* Students from families that have distrust and hostility are more likely to have a negative self image and emotional problems REPRODUCTION FUNCTION \*in order for a society to continue to exist must replace those people that die \* The family is responsible for raising children to become contributing members of society ECONOMIC FUNCTION \*Families are the means whereby children are supplied with the necessities of food, shelter and clothing EDUCATION FUNCT.- primary educational institution used to teach letters, knowledge skill and trade secret to all its members. RELIGIOUS F.- \* Family is the center of all religious activities. Living in a spiritual atmosphere spirituality develops among the children HEALTHF- \*Family as a primary social group performs several health related functions for its members. It looks after health and it members RECREATION F- \* Family performs several recreational functions for its members by entertaining them in various ways. Families According to Merriam-Webster, the family is the basic unit of society, typically composed of two parents and their dependent children, viewed as a collective entity. As defined in the **Family Code of the Philippines**, the family is the basic unit of society, consisting of individuals related by marriage, blood, or adoption, viewed as a collective group. Based on Article XV, Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the family is recognized as the basic unit of society. The United Nations defines the family as the basic unit of society, with the State responsible for ensuring its protection and supporting the well-being of all its members. In sociology, the family is defined as a social group typically consisting of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption, who live together and share economic, emotional, and social responsibilities, playing a key role in the socialization and development of individuals. - Related by birth, marriage, or adoption - Union of persons - Basic unit of society - Emotional bonds and economic cooperation **1. Nuclear Family** A family unit consisting of two parents (a mother and a father) and their children, living together in one household. **2. Extended Family** A family structure that includes not only the nuclear family but also other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, often living together or in close proximity. 3\. Single-Parent Family A family headed by one parent (due to divorce, separation, or single parenthood) who is responsible for raising the children. 4\. Blended Family A family formed when one or both partners in marriage or relationship have children from previous relationships, creating a new family unit that includes both biological and stepchildren. 5\. Childless Family A family in which the couple does not have children, either by choice or due to circumstances like infertility. 6\. Grandparent Family A family in which grandparents take on the primary role of raising their grandchildren, often due to the parents' inability to care for them. 7\. Same-Sex Family A family where the parents are of the same gender, raising biological or adopted children together.