Assessment is a structured approach to gathering and analyzing information
about the client system and their story. How is the assessment process different when the client system is an individual or family versus a community made up of
individuals and families?
Assessment involves gathering the needed information in order to determine
appropriate intervention. Thorough assessment allows social workers to identify
the problems that need to be addressed. Complex social problems often mean
that both the micro and macro level factors contribute to social work cases.
In this Discussion, you compare differences in the assessment stage at different practice levels.
Post a response to the following:
• Describe the assessment process as related to individuals and families.
• Briefly identify the types of information it is important to gather.
• Compare how assessment at the macro level is similar and dissimilar than at
the micro level.
• Explain how you would gather the needed information at the macro level.
• Identify a situation where a client system (micro or macro) may be reluctant to
engage in the assessment process.
Reference
Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hull, G. H., Jr. (2018). Empowerment series:
Understanding generalist practice (8th ed.). CENGAGE Learning.
• Chapter 5,
“Engagement and Assessment in Generalist Practice” (pp. 175–223)
