Exam 2: Foundations for Social Systems Theory

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The social systems perspective is based on nine assumptions. Identify and discuss four of these assumptions

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The social systems perspective is based on nine assumptions, and four of these assumptions are as follows:

1. Interdependence: This assumption suggests that all parts of a social system are interconnected and interdependent. Changes in one part of the system can have ripple effects on other parts, and the system as a whole.

2. Equifinality: This assumption states that there are multiple ways for a social system to achieve the same outcome. In other words, different paths can lead to the same goal, and there is no single "right" way for a system to function.

3. Feedback: The social systems perspective assumes that social systems receive feedback from their environment, which can influence their functioning. This feedback can be positive, reinforcing certain behaviors, or negative, prompting the system to change its behavior.

4. Adaptation: Social systems are assumed to be adaptive, meaning they can adjust and change in response to internal and external pressures. This assumption recognizes that social systems must be flexible and responsive in order to survive and thrive in a dynamic environment.

These assumptions form the foundation of the social systems perspective, providing a framework for understanding and analyzing the complex interactions and dynamics within social systems. By recognizing and considering these assumptions, researchers and practitioners can gain insights into the functioning and behavior of social systems, and develop strategies for promoting positive change and growth.

According to Koestler, the attribute of all systems is to be simultaneously oriented outward to the environment and inward toward internal functioning. This is known as

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General systems theory seeks to explain the principles of

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Properties of a whole that are not possessed by the parts comprising the whole are known as

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According to general systems theory, all systems are

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An agency program is created to treat heroin addiction. Over time the need for this treatment decreases, while the need to address Ecstasy addition increases. This is an example of

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A sociological theory that addresses the interactions between the individual and society through symbolic communication is

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For most of us, the family is central in the development of our sense of the generalized other and also our enduring values. The family is

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The person largely responsible for formulating general systems theory was

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The internalized rules for proper behavior in a particular situation involve

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Working with individuals to improve their conditions, while at the same time, working to change the social conditions that oppress and limit human potential is

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The quality of the self as being able to consider itself objectively is termed

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Social functions that are formally recognized by society, as the police function of preventing crime are

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The 'generalized other' is defined by Mead as

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Ecological theory offers a way of examining the effects of environment on social organization and therefore it becomes an approach to the general study of

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Ecological theory focuses on the interdependence of everything sharing the same habitat. Provide a definition of PIE and discuss its impact on social work practice.

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Goal attainment (one of the four functional requisites) is consummatory (an end state) and

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General systems theory is essentially a theory of order. From this perspective define and contrast the concepts of entropy and negative entropy and the link with the concepts of open and closed systems.

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What are the hallmarks of a good theory?

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Identify and differentiate the four functions that can, according to Parsons, be used for the analysis of all social systems.

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