Apply two theories that best explain depression/Bipolar and alcohol addiction. This is a scholarly paper, drawing upon empirical research and relevant literature. Diversity issues must be addressed. Length: 15–18 pages. A more detailed description of the assignment, and rubrics, will be discussed during the live session.
Social Work Core Competencies
1 Professional Identity
2 Ethical Practice
3 Critical Thinking
4 Diversity in Practice
5 Human Rights and Justice
6 Research-Based Practice
7 Human Behavior
8 Policy Practice
9 Practice Contexts
10 Engage, Assess, Intervene, Evaluate
Discuss depression/bipolar and alcohol addiction from at least two explanatory theoretical perspectives. The use of object relations theory will satisfy the requirement, since you should utilize an integrative approach, i.e., at least three theorists here (e.g., Fairbairn, Bowlby, Winnicott, etc.) Behavioral and cognitive theories count as one. I prefer that you not use Eriksonian theory as that was covered extensively in the first year. Other theories from the first year are acceptable with the expectation that they will be written at the more advanced second year level. Please check with me if you have any questions. A section on neurobiology is also required.
A small treatment section (2–3 page) is also required. Be sure the treatment flows from your theoretical perspectives.
Diversity issues must also be included. You don’t have to cover them all, but you do need to demonstrate an awareness of how these factors (class, gender, culture, race, sexual orientation) may impact upon your subject (e.g., women who have been incested and the relationship to borderline personality disorder development).
An A paper demonstrates an integration of assigned readings, class lectures, and your own research. Internet resources should be limited to three sites and the websites clearly identifying the subject. Please be sure these are reputable sites (e.g., Cochrane or Campbell Collaborations, Medscape) and preferably peer reviewed. While Wikipedia may be a starting point for some research, the information it contains should be verified through other sources. Please demonstrate original thinking wherever possible. You may use a case or small vignettes to illustrate the concepts, but please remember this is not a practice paper so a vignette should be no more than one page.
DETAILS
15–18 pages; double-spaced
Use normal fonts (nothing smaller than the type on this sheet, please!) and normal margins. APA style is required (which includes headings).
At least 15 references are required. Class lectures may not count among them.
Rubric: The paper is worth 50% of your course grade. Following is a grading rubric:
Content: 75%
Process: 25%
100% Total
Content
Theoretical perspectives* 55%
Neurobiology 5%
Diversity 5%
Treatment section 5%
Introduction 5%
75%
Process
Writing style** 20%
Critical thinking 5%
25%
*Theoretical perspectives include use of the literature (readings on the syllabus as well as outside readings) and demonstrating integration of class lecture material.
**Writing style includes good English grammar, syntax, sentence structure, and spelling. It also includes clarity of concepts and ideas (articulation). An A paper demonstrates mastery of the topic as well as understanding of the complex nature of the subject. (See student handbook for further elaboration.)
