SOW 210 - Human Behavior in the Social Environment

 
Description
This course examines human development across the lifespan through the lens of the person-in-environment framework. Emphasis is placed on how biological, psychological, spiritual and sociocultural systems interact to influence behavior from preconception through older adulthood. Students explore multiple theoretical perspectives, critically examine structural inequalities and apply ecological and developmental theories to diverse populations. This course prepares students to integrate theory with practice and analyze factors that contribute to both risk and resilience across systems.

CSWE Required Competencies 

This course is designed in accordance with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS). As a foundational course in the social work curriculum, SOW 210 addresses competencies required for accredited social work programs. The following competencies align with the course learning outcomes and prepare students for continued study and future licensure pathways:

1. Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
2. Competency 2: Engage Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) in Practice
3. Competency 3: Engage Anti-Racism in Practice
4. Competency 4: Engage in Practice-Informed Research and Research-Informed Practice
5. Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
6. Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
7. Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities

1. Analyze major theories of human development and behavior across the lifespan. (CSWE Competencies 4, 6, 7)
2. Examine the impact of social systems, including families, communities and institutions, on individual development. (CSWE Competencies 6, 7, 8)
3. Explore how race, culture, gender, sexuality, ability and socioeconomic status shape human experiences. (CSWE Competencies 2, 3)
4. Apply an ecological systems perspective to assess risk, resilience and person-in-environment interactions. (CSWE Competencies 6, 7)
5. Interpret how empirically supported frameworks inform social work assessment and intervention. (CSWE Competencies 4, 7, 8)
6. Reflect on the value of eclectic, culturally responsive approaches to understanding human behavior. (CSWE Competencies 1, 2, 3)

1. Theories of human development and behavior
2. Physical, cognitive, emotional and social development across the lifespan
3. Prenatal through late adulthood stages
4. Death, dying, grief and loss
5. Sexuality and identity across life stages
6. Culture, race and intersectionality
7. Social systems and ecological theory
8. Risk, resilience and protective factors
9. Demographics and aging populations
10. Urban and societal influences on behavior

• Communication
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
• Culture Society & Citizenship
• Information Literacy

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