The organizational theory

ORGANIZATIONAL THEORY

As you have seen in your courses and in field experience, theory holds an important place in social work, specifically in guiding assessments and interventions. Theories help to explain how people think and behave, and how they grow. But theories can also be used to conceptualize organizations. Organizational theories can inform the structure and roles within the organization, the distribution of power, and the organization’s core purpose.

In this Discussion, you analyze one such organizational theory and consider why you are drawn to it in particular.  Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.

To prepare:

• Review the Learning Resources on organizational theory.

• Explore the various theories and select one to use for this Discussion. Consider the strengths and limitations of your chosen theory.

Note: You may need to perform further research in the Walden Library to gain sufficient information and insight into the theory.

BY DAY 3

Post an analysis of one organizational theory. In your analysis, describe the main idea of the theory and its strengths and limitations as applied to social work organizations. Explain why you are most drawn to this particular theory.

References 

Dziak, M. (2020). Organizational theory Links to an external site.. In Salem Press encyclopedia. Salem Press.

Furman, R., Gibelman, M., & Winnett, R. (2020). Putting theory to practice Download Putting theory to practice. In Navigating human service organizations: Essential information for thriving and surviving in agencies (4th ed., pp. 26–29). Oxford University Press.

Credit line: Navigating Human Service Organizations: Essential Information for Thriving and Surviving in Agencies, 4th Edition by Furman, R.; Gibelman, M.; Winnett, R. Copyright 2020 by Oxford University Press. Reprinted by permission of Oxford University Press via the Copyright Clearance Center. Licensed in 2022.