Discussion 1: Myths of Sexual Violence

Myths and misinformation surround the topic of sexual violence. For years, these myths have hung around the discourse, further muddying an already difficult topic about which to communicate.

Although all myths can be harmful, there are some that may be arguably more harmful. For this Discussion, you identify some of the myths surrounding the topic of sexual abuse and consider why they have remained so prevalent.

Post an explanation of which myths of sexual violence you think are the most harmful and why. Should be at least 75 words and have at least 1 source and 1 citation.

Discussion 2: Bystander Intervention

Separating fact from fiction is imperative when learning how to recognize and respond appropriately, and effectively, to victim/survivors, and bystanders/witnesses, of sexual violence. Although a large majority of sexual assaults do not happen in public settings, in some cases, they do.

This is when it is important to understand the experience of the bystander. Bystander intervention can help to explain how, when, and where these kinds of assaults take place; at times, it may even prevent the assault from happening. For this week's Discussion, watch the video case study of Talia. Locate research on bystander intervention by Victoria L. Banyard and/or Sarah McMahon.

Post your application of the theory of bystander intervention to the behavior of those exhibited in the video. Then, describe a scenario in which a bystander could have influenced this scenario in a different way. Should be at least 75 words and have at least 1 source and 1 citation.

Discussion 3: Spiritual Development

Furness and Gilligan (2010) stated, "There is a growing body of literature written predominantly for health professionals and more recently for social workers about the importance of developing and incorporating cultural and spiritual sensitivity and awareness in their work with others" (p. 2187).

Spirituality, which may or may not include involvement with an established religion, contributes to human diversity and influences human behavior. An individual's spirituality may be an important factor in his or her social environment. As a social worker, your awareness of a client's spirituality may help increase your understanding of the client and his or her needs.

Sensitivity to and respect for your client's spiritual dimension reflects your appreciation of diversity. As you consider the potential impact of your clients' spirituality on their perspectives and behavior, you must also consider how your spirituality might influence your interactions with a client.

For this Discussion, you consider the impact of spirituality on your interactions with clients.

Post a Discussion in which you explain how considerations about clients' worldviews, including their spirituality or religious convictions, might affect your interactions with them. Provide at least two specific examples. In addition, explain one way your own spirituality or religious convictions might support your work with a client, and one barrier it might present. Finally, share one strategy for applying an awareness of spirituality to social work practice in general.Should be at least 75 words and have at least 1 source and 1 citation.

Discussion 4:  Stakeholders in Health Care Policy

There are many stakeholders involved in health care policy issues, and they represent a wide variety of interests and perspectives. The health care industry employs many people. Though all stakeholders may share the goal of optimum individual and societal health and well-being, it is important to note that stakeholders' financial interests may influence decision making.

For this Discussion, consider the impact of health care policy's evolution on Medicaid and Medicare programs. Then, think about a specific Medicaid policy in your state that should be amended, and reflect on how you would amend it and why. Finally, research the stakeholders involved in Medicaid and Medicare health care policy in your state and consider the role of these stakeholders in policy development for this issue.

Post an explanation of how the evolution of health care policy has influenced programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. Then, describe a specific Medicaid policy in your state that should be amended, and explain how you would amend it and why. Finally, describe the stakeholders involved in the Medicaid and Medicare health care policy in your state, and explain the role of these stakeholders in policy development for this issue.Should be at least 75 words and have at least 1 source and 1 citation.