Micro-Level Intervention: A Frame of Reference and a Practice Model

Abstract

This paper attempts to show that a philosophical redefinition of the locus of social problems demands a fundamental change in micro-level intervention. A framework and model are introduced that describe a reconceptualization of social work practice rooted in the social-welfare-through-social-change philosophy. Four types of worker activity provide the framework for micro- and macro-level specialization. A micro-level intervention model is then defined in terms of four practice principles: (1) accountability to the client, (2) following the demands of the client task, (3) maximizing environmental supports, and (4) proceeding from an assumption of least content.