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When conducting social work, it is indispensable to have a complete understanding of the circumstances in which a person lives. Each situation exists in a complex context combining multiple interrelated elements. These factors can be arranged in a particular order, starting from the immediate environment to external factors influencing a person’s behavior. This multidimensional model is often applied in the cases of troubled children. Examining all layers of the context in which they live provides social workers with an in-depth understanding of the crucial processes determining their behavioral patterns. The purpose of this paper is to review the multidimensional approach to human behavior.
The multidimensional theory focuses on categorizing the environment in which a person lives, dividing it into several layers. In the case of children-oriented social work, specialists tend to lay emphasis on the familial factors influencing the behavior of their patients. However, a multidimensional approach expands the range of factors, encompassing external factors, as well. Urie Bronfenbrenner utilized the multidimensional model when designing his theory of bio-ecological development, summarizing these principles (Houston, 2017). According to the discussed approach, a child’s development is shaped by several components. The familial relations serve as the core of this paradigm, but their influence is further complemented by meso-, macro-, and meta factors. In addition to the household situation, this model considers broader circles, such as extended family, friends, peers, teachers, and the broad socioeconomic context (Houston, 2017). Therefore, the key components of the multidimensional approach are represented by several layers of the context of a child’s life.
The discussed theory appears highly relevant in today’s complex environment. The context of a person’s life is broad, and it comprises multiple elements, which is reflected in the nature of the multidimensional approach. According to Hertler et al. (2018), Bronfenbrenner has introduced a new concept in social work and behavioral studies, which is now called an extra-familial environment. This idea encompasses more than the immediate surroundings, taking into consideration such overarching concepts as a nation’s economy and governmental policies. This approach is justified, as each layer of the social environment exists in strong connection with others (Hertler et al., 2018). Focusing on the immediate surroundings would lead to a subjective conclusion, and the accuracy of such an intervention would be questionable. The society of the 21st century has become globalized, meaning that major processes occurring at high levels translate into particular tendencies within the scope of an individual’s development. When exploring the situation layer-by-layer, a competent social worker will be able to design an effective, evidence-based intervention plan.
The primary advantage of the multidimensional approach lies in its broad scope. It devotes substantial attention to the external factor, which leads to a more accurate examination of relevant circumstances. This model provides insight into deeper underlying issues, which determine the development of a person. For example, when working with troubled children, an easier route would be to search for family-related issues. However, if evident familiar factors, such as abuse and parent alcoholism, are not present, it is required to explore the broader context. The root of disruptive behavior may be extended as far as to encompass systemic disparities. This idea leads to another major advantage of multidimensional practice, which consists of its cultural competency potential. Bronfenbrenner considered global processes to be a relevant factor in social work, and the examination of outer layers of the environment allows specialists to incorporate culture-specific approaches in the intervention (Hertler et al., 2018). Therefore, the multidimensional theory demonstrates excellent potential in terms of evidence-based practice.
However, the broad implementation of this model faces a major impediment. Its most considerable weakness lies in the complexity of the method. As discussed earlier, multidimensional social work is expected to review the entire context of one’s environment with all its interrelated elements. However, the process appears to be highly demanding, posing challenges for a social worker’s expertise. It requires substantial experience and attention to examine all layers of the situation, which may be difficult for some specialists. In addition, the process can be time-consuming, as well, and haste would make the conclusion superficial and inaccurate. A similar situation can be observed in the case of Joe Henry and his counselor Leonard Coles. The incompetence of the latter prevented their sessions from being productive, as he was unable to see the full perspective of the situation. As a result, Joe’s disruptive behavior became worse and ultimately to his detention in a juvenile center (Whaley, 1999). Therefore, the implementation of the multidimensional approach remains challenging for many specialists, who are unable to provide an in-depth examination of their patients’ issues.
Overall, it appears possible to conclude that the multidimensional approach to social work deserves additional attention in the current environment. The complexity of the model is balanced by its immense potential in terms of disruptive behavior intervention. The multidimensional theory considers multiple variables, ranging from the immediate influence of one’s family to overarching systemic issues of society. Accordingly, it enables a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which a specific combination of factors can affect the development of a person. As such, social workers can implement a truly evidence-based approach to practice, collecting pertinent data and making accurate forecasts. This way, it is possible to identify high-risk groups among children based on their familial situation, socioeconomic status, and cultural background. The next step will be to implement preventive measures so that the intervention stops the disruptive behavior from emerging. However, this plan requires considerable effort, competence, and dedication on behalf of the specialists.
References
Hertler, S. C., Figueredo, A. J., Peñaherrera-Aguirre, M., Fernandes, H. B. F., Woodley, M. A. (2018). Life history evolution. Palgrave Macmillan.
Houston, S. (2017). Towards a critical ecology of child development in social work: Aligning the theories of Bronfenbrenner and Bourdieu. Families, Relationships and Societies, 6(1), 53–69. Web.
Whaley, F. (1999). Joe the king [Film]. Warner Bros.
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