Constructivist Inspirations in Social Work with The Family

Abstract

This paper explores the issues of current achievements in the field of the constructivist social work with the family, as well as presents a new perspective on the use of constructivist thought in this area. The constructivist approach was particularly developed in the 1970s. Still, it remains a concept that strongly influences the process of helping the family. Numerous constructivist-oriented methods of working with the family were developed in Europe and the United States; they also inspired Polish social work. The solution-centered approach is the most widespread approach to the constructivist school of thought in Poland. In addition, among a wide range of these concepts we can distinguish: constructive social work by Nigel Parton and Patrick O'Byrne, strengths-based social work by Ann Weick, Charles Rapp, Patrick W. Sullivan, Walter Kisthardt, Dennis Saleebey, the concept of positive practice by Gary Clapton and strengths-based work models (FGC, VIT). Researchers of social work less frequently refer to positions that fall within the current of systemic (operational) constructivism by Niklas Luhmann. The analysis undertaken in the article aims to show the ways of (re) defining the helping process, as well as the role of partners involved in this process in the theories of Heinz von Foerster and Niklas Luhmann.