| Summary: | 博士 === 國立政治大學 === 社會工作研究所 === 107 === The strengths perspective, developing for more than 30 years in the United States, has been applied in Taiwan since 2003 and has shown its pragmatic value in several fields of social work, but not in the military contexts. The purposes of this study focused on exploring the outlook and advantages in implementing strengths-based case work for armed forces. These purposes also took into account that strengths-based practice will be used extensively in the near future.
The study combined both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Four military officers were selected, all male, with emotional issues. Changes in their thoughts and behaviors were understood through observation records, the trend of their scores for empowerment and adaptation were measured using scales, and their perceptions and opinions during participation were further understood through in-depth interviews. The conclusions are as follows.
1、After applying strengths-based practice, there were significant influences on the participant’s empowerment, adaptation, thoughts and behaviors; also, they all had positive feedback regarding the participation.
2、The characteristics, restrictions, and advantages of introducing strengths perspective in the military may be listed in the following three points.
a.Firstly, a strictly hierarchic status have negative influence on workers’ ability to build relationships with clients. However, the characteristics of a total institution determining people’s everyday activities may moderate this condition by creating more interaction between people, even creating new advantages.
b.Secondly, while the strengths perspective emphasizes that the environment might cause a personal disturbance, it also recognizes that the environment can provide support and care. Military contexts present a wealth of resources, including work opportunities, stability of lifestyle, rewards for achievement, and a strong social network. Moreover, with leaders executing their authority to good effect, it will be possible to realize the most important elements of people’s adaptation; more outreach within armed forces is encouraged.
c.Finally, although the social workers’ autonomy were limited in military contexts, they may yet overcome the dilemma and show their autonomy if they can maintain faith along with responsibility for their actions.
3、The perspective emphasizes faith in people’s potential as well as their subjectivity, and builds partnerships between workers and clients. In this study, we grasped the importance of de-labeling our clients while focusing on their whole personalities. The application of this approach was helpful for clients’ recovery, and also for the social workers as they reached beyond the mode of relying on medical systems. It destigmatized mental health issues while providing support and assistance for people in need.
4、Because of transformations in recruitment, military leaders should rethink and challenge traditional forms of leadership while treating subordinates as valuable human resources. Implementing strengths perspective in the daily life of armed forces can prevent people from behaving maladaptively, thereby enhancing the capability and coherence of military personnel.
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