SOCW 6060: Social Work Theory and Clinical Practice
Wk 6 Discussion: Using Research to Select a Therapeutic Modality
Provide the reference for the study you found using APA guidelines. Be sure to provide a link to the
article.
Baucom, D. H., & Boeding, S. (2013). The role of theory and research in the practice of cognitive-
behavioral couple therapy: If you build it, they will come. Behavior therapy, 44(4), 592-602.
Briefly paraphrase, in 2–3 sentences, the methodological context (i.e., research method, how data
was collected, and the instruments used) of the study and the findings.
The study incorporates a qualitative research method because it helps reveal couple behavior and their
perception towards relationships. The results of the study are somewhat descriptive, and the inferences
are easily drawn from the provided data. The study uses focus groups to collect data.
Explain how the findings are applicable or appropriate for the client in your case study.
The Cognitive Behavioral theory is an effective method in assisting distressed couples just like Paula
Cortez. The findings from the article show that about 50% of couples tend to take the non-distress range
when dealing with randomized control trials (Baucom & Boeding, 2013). However, within 2 years of its
applicability, the intervention method will tend to deteriorate. The good thing with the intervention
method is that it provides a good understanding of the theory when addressing distress by couples.
Paula Cortez problems can somehow be attributed to the relationship with her ex-husband. If she works
on this relationship with David to discuss any unresolved issues from their marriage, it will help her
move forward with other aspects of her life. Somehow, if they happen to solve their issues, it will be
somehow easier for her to overcome her emotional strain and suffering that she has endured for most
of her life. The case study reveals that Paula Cortez has issues related to individual functioning and the
context of the environment in which she lives. For instance, Paula Cortez’s relationship with her ex-
husband, health concerns, and the inability to care for her daughter, are the multitude factors affecting
the client. The intervention method is also effective because it takes about 6-12 months for the client to
starts being her own self (Baucom & Boeding, 2013). The intervention emphasizes behavior change and
explicit attention linked to emotional factors affecting Paula Cortez. This suggests that if a social worker
incorporates the couple therapy in the context of individualizing it, it might be a start to motivate Paula.
The theoretical understanding of cognitive behavioral therapy provides a treatment plan based on a
specific experience central to the relationship between Paula Cortez and her husband.
Determine whether you would use or not use the therapy you selected for the client in your selected
case study (consider how culturally relevant it is, how aligned it is with social work ethics, etc.) and
explain why.
The intervention is effective considering that it puts into consideration things like cultural values, age,
and gender. Cognitive behavioral theory is beneficial to the clients in this case because it integrates
cultural identity and positively influences the client to embrace the treatment plan. Baucom & Boeding
(2013) notes that Cognitive behavioral therapy is somewhat evidenced based and it is used to treat
clients with mental health problems, depression, and anxiety (Just as it is the case with Paula Cortez).
Cognitive behavioral theory is effective although it depends on a service user’s bias. I would use
cognitive behavioral therapy because studies have shown that it can considerably decrease Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder. Since Paula Cortez’ main problem is depression, cognitive behavioral therapy
would work best. The methods align well with social work practice because it helps people understand
that each cultural group has its own values and can influence identity development with clients to meet
their daily needs.
References
Baucom, D. H., & Boeding, S. (2013). The role of theory and research in the practice of cognitive-
behavioral couple therapy: If you build it, they will come. Behavior therapy, 44(4), 592-602.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.beth.2012.12.004
Turner, F. J. (Ed.). (2017). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (6th ed.). New York,
NY: Oxford University Press.
RESPONSES
Good afternoon
You brought up some excellent and valid points. The use of evidence - based practices when working
with Helen, would be highly beneficial because the intervention shows how the practices must be based
on the evidence of efficacy. The research completed would be factual and concise. We can then gauge
the possible outcomes for Helen as well as see how effective they can be. You also mention the
therapeutic use of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which helps the client understand the
hurtles and difficulties that life will throw at them. This psychotherapy includes: " Cognitive Defusing "
which helps to decrease the propensity to embody feelings, visions, recollections, and emotions. "
Acceptance " allows these feelings, visions, recollections, and emotions to repeat without grappling and
fighting with them, rather accepting the issues, dealing with them, and accepting. (Dewane, 2012) As
you stated in your post, the treatment was shown to decrease anxiety and depression symptoms.
Reference
Dewane, C. (2012). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Is a Beneficial Treatment. Opposing
Viewpoints: Mental Illness.
Good afternoon
Our clients do relate the CBT is a great approach for them. CBT focuses on the client’s behavior and can
assist people to change the way they think and feel about certain situations. Ella’s unresolved trauma
seems to be the root cause of all her problems, as well as Paula’s. The benefit of the Cognitive Behavior
Theory is combining both behavior and cognition in an assessment and targeted intervention of
cognitive processes to effect long-term behavioral change for clients. (Turner, 2017, p.58).
Reference
Turner, F. J. (Ed.). (2017). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (6th ed.). New York,
NY: Oxford University Press.
