Discussion 1

Ideological Perspectives of Population-Specific Policy Social workers often are very aware of and informed about the needs of the specific populations with which they work. As a result, it is important that social workers get involved in the policy-creation process by sharing their experiences and perspectives with others, including policymakers.

For this Discussion, select a population of particular interest to you. Then, select three to five policies (including two to three state-level and two to three federal-level policies) related to that population. Finally, subscribe to a variety of blog alerts concerning the population and the policies you selected.

Note that you will be discussing about these policies throughout the course. You will also critically review the published opinions of bloggers outside of this course, who write about the policies you identified. Post by Day 4 a brief description of the population you selected. Then, provide a description of three to five policies (including two to three state-level and two to three federal-level policies) related to that population. Finally, explain the relationship between the policies and the population you selected.

Discussion 2

Discussion: The Impact of Social Policy Social policies can have a significant impact on individuals and families, as well as the organizations and agencies that implement the policies. In some cases, the policy, as written, appears comprehensive and effective. Yet, despite appearances, the policy might fail to be effective as a result of improper implementation, interpretation, and/or application of the policy.

As a social worker, how might you reduce the potential negative impact faulty social policies might have on organizations and agencies, as well as the populations you serve? For this Discussion, review this week's resources, including cases "Working with Immigrants and Refugees:

The Case of Luisa" and "Social Work Policy: Benefit Administration and Provision." Then, select either of the cases and consider how the social welfare policies presented in the case influenced the problems facing Luisa or Tessa. Finally, think about how policies affect social agencies and how social workers work with clients such as Tessa or Luisa.

Discussion 3

Discussion: Gender Stereotypes, Sexism, and Sexual Violence Gender stereotypes influence and perpetuate what is known as patriarchy. Patriarchy is a concept that considers men the holders of power and authority resulting in domination of all sectors throughout society.

Men have held the most powerful positions in the world and have guided our laws, policies, and culture. Patriarchy not only impacts society on a global scale through structural oppression but also our daily lives. It influences individual relationships and the daily interactions amongst husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, and colleagues.

Feminist theory posits that men use violence in attempt to maintain this power and privilege. Domestic abuse and sexual assault are forms of violence that clearly exert power and control over a person. While abuse can be demonstrated by both men and women and survivors of abuse could be of either gender, statistics show that women are the overwhelming victims of abuse and violence.

Patriarchy and the sexist and misogynistic viewpoints propagate views of women as subordinates who are meant to be kept in "their place." Violence is a form of managing and maintaining a male's role in society. To prepare for this Discussion, review the Johnson case.

Reflect on the gender and sexism stereotypes expressed and the essential skills for social work practice you have learned throughout the program. To prepare: View Johnson (Episode 2) and consider the gender and sexist stereotypes made around sexual assault by the professional in the episode.

These stereotypes may revolve around gender, life circumstances, socioeconomic status, and education level. By Day 3 Post an explanation of gender and sexist stereotypes and assumptions around sexual assault made by a professional you observe in the case study episode. Explain how these stereotypes perpetuate violence against women. Apply social work skills for social change advocacy to address sexism.

Explain how social workers can respond to the stereotypes and assumptions you have identified in the Johnson case and how you might advocate for social change related to sexism while working with families, clients, and groups and collaborating with other professionals. Be specific about the skills you would apply and the actions you would take.

All References must be APA format.