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SOWK 3400

HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT (4 cr.)

The primary focus of this course is to provide you with knowledge and understanding of human behavior and development across the life span from an ecological and social systems approach examining biological, psychological, and spiritual factors. Emphasis is on the role of and interaction between various systems including: the individual, family, small group, organization, community, and society. Each stage of the life cycle from prenatal/birth through old age/death will be examined relative to the three levels of practice (micro, mezzo and macro). Typical strengths/assets, risks, and strategies/interventions are considered for each life stage. Multiple dimensions of diversity including gender, race/ethnicity, age, religion, ability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status are stressed. For each stage of the lifespan, you explore various strengths, risks and intervention strategies aimed at improving individual and family resilience and furthering social justice. The theme of the course is to approach life and development in a holistic way. The experiences of people from diverse cultures will expand our understanding of sustainable human growth in global context. Prerequisites: PSYC 2025; BIOL 1120 or consent of the program director. Prerequisites with concurrency: SOWK 2810.