SSS 653A Clinical Social Work Intervention Informed by Attachment Theory and Neurobiology
This advanced elective focuses on enhancing student practice and intervention skills by using an attachment and neurobiology framework. An overview of the research and conceptual framework of attachment theory and advances in neurobiology are explored as they pertain to new directions in clinical practice and social work intervention. The course describes the evolution of attachment theory from the original works of Bowlby and Ainsworth to the expansion of contemporary theory based on neurobiological research. The course emphasizes the importance of attachment and right brain affect regulatory functioning as basic to healthy development across the lifespan. Findings from a wealth of clinical and longitudinal research studies document the importance of attachment security in the prevention of relational and behavioral disorders in individuals, couples, families, and groups. Attention is placed on appreciating the role of secure parenting and the development of attachment relationships within the context of diverse cultures. This course introduces students to attachment-based treatment models for child and adult disorders and examines the evidence for an attachment-based social work practice.