SCWK9956 · Social Work

The Dialectics of Social and Behavioral Theory

School of Social Work

In this course, students will read selected original publications of classical and contemporary theorists in psychology, sociology, political science, urban planning and community development, and economics. They will consider how theories which are foundational to different disciplines in the social and behavioral sciences can inform their studies and predict empirical findings. The theories selected for examination in the course will include: theories of identity and stigma, social integration theories, exchange theory, conflict theories, theories of social integration; critical race theory, role theories, rational choice theory, life course theories, role theories, social justice theories, theories of social change and, and epidemiology. The students will use the assumptions of different theories to prepare three papers, each of which will examine a single issue from a different perspective.