, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE ONLY
SECTION A:
1. Choosing the most appropriate theoretical perspective for an intervention is important; each
theoretical perspective has its strengths and limitations. Categorise the strengths and limitations
of each of the following theoretical perspectives.
1.1. Strengths perspective
Strengths:
Focuses on individuals’ and communities’ strengths (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 26).
Acknowledges the resources of individuals, groups and communities (BSW4802, Study Guide,
p. 26).
Believes in the potential and capabilities of people, groups and communities (BSW4802, Study
Guide, p. 26).
Acknowledges the indigenous knowledge of people and communities (BSW4802, Study Guide,
p. 26).
Focuses on setting up relationships based on mutuality with client systems, affirming human
dignity (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 26).
Limitations:
Focuses on strengths, but if weaknesses are neglected and managed poorly/not managed at all, this
can eventually influence the individual to the point where s/he is less effective in that particular
scope of work (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 26).
1.2. Social justice perspective
Strengths:
Focuses on systems, rather than individuals (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Addresses structures, policies and legislation which may contribute to practices promoting
social injustice (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Promotes human rights, human dignity and fairness (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Creates opportunities for people to improve their lives (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Limitations:
Does not acknowledge the social contexts in which individuals function in society (BSW4802,
Study Guide, p. 27).
The redistribution of resources, freedom to compete, or greater access do not transform the
structures that created the inequalities in the first place (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
SECTION A:
1. Choosing the most appropriate theoretical perspective for an intervention is important; each
theoretical perspective has its strengths and limitations. Categorise the strengths and limitations
of each of the following theoretical perspectives.
1.1. Strengths perspective
Strengths:
Focuses on individuals’ and communities’ strengths (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 26).
Acknowledges the resources of individuals, groups and communities (BSW4802, Study Guide,
p. 26).
Believes in the potential and capabilities of people, groups and communities (BSW4802, Study
Guide, p. 26).
Acknowledges the indigenous knowledge of people and communities (BSW4802, Study Guide,
p. 26).
Focuses on setting up relationships based on mutuality with client systems, affirming human
dignity (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 26).
Limitations:
Focuses on strengths, but if weaknesses are neglected and managed poorly/not managed at all, this
can eventually influence the individual to the point where s/he is less effective in that particular
scope of work (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 26).
1.2. Social justice perspective
Strengths:
Focuses on systems, rather than individuals (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Addresses structures, policies and legislation which may contribute to practices promoting
social injustice (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Promotes human rights, human dignity and fairness (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Creates opportunities for people to improve their lives (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Limitations:
Does not acknowledge the social contexts in which individuals function in society (BSW4802,
Study Guide, p. 27).
The redistribution of resources, freedom to compete, or greater access do not transform the
structures that created the inequalities in the first place (BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
