RE: Discussion 2 – Week 2

Discussion 2: Gender Sensitivity in Social Work Practice

While most issues and concerns impact both men and women, issues such as sexual assault, domestic violence, and poverty are likely to impact women more frequently. In fact, throughout history, women across the world have experienced multiple forms of oppression and sexism through limited access to education, health care, and employment. For example, according to one recent report, U.S. women working full-time, earn only 77 cents for every dollar men earn for doing the same work (Institute for Women’s Policy Research, 2012). While some might question the data that supports these statements about women’s experiences in society, it is clear that social workers must be sensitive to the influences of gender in their clients’ lives in order to fully understand the issues they face and how to resolve them.    

Despite the larger role of women in society today compared to a half-century ago, how might historical views and expectations of gender roles still apply today? For example, if you are conducting an initial intake with family members from the Logan Family Video case, who are dealing with a teen pregnancy, would you assume that the mother is the primary source of emotional support? How might you, as a social worker, use your understanding of gender stereotypes and gender roles to help the Logan Family resolve their presenting concerns?   

For this Discussion, review this week’s Learning Resources, including the Logan Family Video case. Reflect on the video interview and make note of any aspect where the social worker was not culturally competent or gender sensitive. Then, think about what you might need to consider in order to be both culturally competent and gender sensitive while working with Eboni Logan. Finally, consider what barriers you might encounter when working with Eboni, given your own personal values with regard to teen pregnancy and abortion. 

Post by Day 4 a brief explanation of one potential aspect of the video interview where the social worker was not culturally competent nor gender sensitive. Then, explain what you might need to consider in order to be both culturally competent and gender sensitive while working with Eboni. Finally, explain what barriers you might encounter when working with Eboni, given your own personal values with regard to teen pregnancy and abortion