Assessments are an integral part of the planned change process.  During this part of the process you will accumulate, organize, and  review the information you will need to begin the planning and  intervention phases of treatment. Content and information are obtained  from multiple sources (the child, family members, school personnel,  etc.) and in various forms (interviews, records, and observation). It is  essential to collect data in a comprehensive manner—understanding the  presenting problem from an ecological model that seeks to gain insight  into the concern on a micro, mezzo, and macro level. Focusing on a  multilevel approach to a client’s concern and taking into account the  environmental factors that contribute to the presenting problem  distinguishes social work from other disciplines.

1. Post a description of the importance of  using multiple evidence-based tools (including quantitative, open ended,  and ecologically focused) to assess children. Explain how each  complements the other in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of  the young client’s concerns and situation. Then, describe the use of an  eco-map in assessment and explain the different systems you will account  for in your assessment of a child.

1.   What makes this form of assessment specific to social work. 

Support your posts with specific references to this week’s resources. Be sure to provide full APA citations for your references.

 

Woolley, M. E. (2013). Assessment of children. In M. J. Holosko, C. N. Dulmus, & K. M. Sowers (Eds.), Social work practice with individuals and families: Evidence-informed assessments and interventions (pp. 1–39). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
 

McCormick, K. M., Stricklin, S., Nowak, T. M., & Rous, B. (2008). Using eco-mapping to understand family strengths and resources. Young Exceptional Children, 11(2), 17–28.