1. Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment
Core Competency #7
Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment
Constructed by
A. Reid Murphy

2. Description of characteristic knowledge, values, and skills
Social workers are knowledgeable about human behavior across the life course; the range of social systems in which people live; and the ways social systems promote or deter people in maintaining or achieving health and well-being. Social workers apply theories and knowledge from the liberal arts to understand biological, social, cultural, psychological, and spiritual developments.

3. Generalist Practice Behavior 7.1
Utilize conceptual frameworks to guide the processes of assessment,
intervention, and evaluation
By understanding the Ecological Systems Theory, school social workers can assess a particular issue presented by the student, evaluate their home life and peer group, and then implement an intervention according to the needs of the student.
Ex. We referred a student to the Juvenile Assessment Center, as well as the Find-A-Friend mentoring program in order to combat the lack of supervision in her home and the negative influence of the students peers

4. Generalist Practice Behavior 7.2
Critique and apply knowledge to understand person and environment
The environment from which we derive from impacts our lives in such a profound manner. As social workers, we are taught to start where the client is. Our clients environment is usually a solid starting point as we gain a snapshot of possibly why they are seeking assistance.
Ex. I have been mentoring a young man from my neighborhood. I examined his environment and found a void that needed to be filled. The lack of support from his father has created a barrier for him to successfully achieve academic greatness.