Eclectic approach

SOCIAL WORK

1. GENERAL OVER VIEW OF ECLECTIC APPROACH Origin : Late 17 th century( as a term in psychology) Derived from Greek word eklektikos,from eklegein ‘pick out’from ek ‘out’+ lege in ‘choose’ A main proponent of eclectic approach is RIVERS (1981)

2. According to Richards ,The term ‘ ECLECTIC APPROACH ’ refers to problem solving approach that is not based on a single method but that draws on several differend method principles that are made use of in practice .It is problem based approach.

3. ECLECTIC SOCIAL WORK APPROACH An eclectic approach is one which draws from many theories including complementary theories ,competing or even contradictory theories, depending upon the situation and needs of client. Eclecticism can be used for both explaining human behavior and intervening in human behavior. Clients benefit from eclectic intervention and explanation because they are less likely to feel placed into a steadfast category. The eclectic social worker seeks to match the most helpful theoretical explanation or intervention to the client/community/population

4. Advantages Disadvantages Does not restrict to one perspective so allows new ideas to be formed Combining methods is a useful way of validating ideas Strength of one method can be used to offset the weakness Individual needs are better matched to treatment when more option are available Therapeutic method treat the entire disorder and not just one symptom It does not lend itself to prediction and control of behavior Its difficult to identity the relative contributions of each approach There is a practical difficulties in investigating the integration of approach There are practical difficulties when providing eclectic therapy.it may be too complex for one clinician to manage