The Diverse Population and the Unique Characteristics and the Distinctive Needs of the Population
During my fieldwork experience, I noted that immigrant families, especially those from Arab countries, create a population that deserves the specific attention of social workers. When in the US, this diverse population has a few unique characteristics, and racial discrimination is among them because such people face difficulties, for example, finding a job. Simultaneously, immigrant families also experience challenges because American society is more developed and democratic compared to their homelands, meaning, for instance, that women have equal rights to men. This information demonstrates that immigrant families face oppression in the USA.
How the Life Model Can Be Applied for the Population
The life model can be applied to the population under analysis. According to Piedra and Engstrom (2009), this model explains that the problem sources refer to the environment, maladaptive interpersonal processes, and stress. These factors are interrelated and make individuals feel vulnerable and oppressed. Social workers should develop competencies in social and legal spheres to help the oppressed population, which obliges them to “practice at whatever levels a particular situation begins and wherever it may lead” (Turner, 2017, p. 288). This model is considered to provide sufficient assistance to the population.
The Gaps in Applying the Life Model for the Population
The life model leads to essential gaps when applied to immigrant families. It is excessively generalized because it focuses on three broad spheres, including the environment, interpersonal relationships, and internal processes, to identify the problem source. Furthermore, the model does not offer any specific interventions that social workers should take to improve the situation.
The Theory That Might Be Helpful in Filling the Gaps of the Life Model When Working With the Population
The psychosocial theory can be a practical approach to fill in the gaps above. This theoretical lens introduces the concept of person-in-situation, meaning that the environment affects peoples’ psychological development. Since immigrant families live in a new situation, they need assistance to cope with its challenges. Social workers can organize structured counseling to provide the diverse population with the necessary support.
References
Piedra, L. M., & Engstrom, D. W. (2009). Segmented assimilation theory and the life model: An integrated approach to understanding immigrants and their children. Social Work, 54(3), 270-277. Web.
Turner, F. J. (Ed.). (2017). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (6th ed.). Oxford University Press.