Course Description
In this course, students will examine violence and abuse through various theoretical perspectives and explore the role of the self-reflective and ethical practitioner in appropriately engaging those affected.
Course Content
The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:
- Abuse occurs in the context of family, community, and culture.
- Abuse takes on various forms (i.e., physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect).
- The concepts of childhood and abuse are social constructions and are embedded within cultural contexts. The evolution of childhood as a social construct informs our understanding of the rights of children.
- Violence and abuse are reflections of unequal distribution of power within society and necessitate an understanding of vulnerability and protective factors. This understanding guides our work as trauma-informed practitioners and our interaction with agencies and governmental systems.
- A history of victimization can be a factor in developing a pattern of victimizing others.
- Practitioner self-care is an essential component to ethical and relevant practice.
Methods Of Instruction
- Lecture
- Group discussion and exercises
- Student presentations
- Blackboard
Means of Assessment
This course will conform to Douglas College policy regarding the number and weighting of evaluations.
Typical means of evaluation will include a combination of written research assignments, journals, class presentations, exams and class participation.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Connect the roles of history, culture, and society in the conceptualization of violence and abuse.
- Discuss the impact of violence and abuse on youth, families, and communities through multiple theoretical perspectives.
- Identify and explain the various types of child abuse and family violence and their potential impacts on those affected.
- Explain how to appropriately engage those affected by violence and identify appropriate services and resources for youth and families who have experienced violence.
- Apply self-reflective practices to their learning on family violence and abuse.