The Social Construction of Normality

Abstract

Our rapidly changing culture raises questions about standards of normality that social workers are often asked to help enforce. The author insists that we need standards to guide our communal life while also reminding the reader that normality is a mere context-social construct. The article gives examples of drastically changing standards such as the changing expectations of normal sexuality or normal child rearing. Therapeutic standards, partially laid down in the Code of Ethics, are, moreover, the guidelines for social work practice, given the close interface between ethical values and clinical practice. The ambiguity of the meaning of normal and abnormal is discussed, suggesting that abnormal behavior may be required in the face of social injustices.

The psychological goods on clinical social work: a content analysis of the clinical social work and social justice literature

“…The common experience of stigma and discrimination often impacts mental health consumers' ability to receive equal access to resources, especially if both psychological and structural barriers are an impediment (Dean, 2004;Dulmus et al, 2005;Freud, 1999;Linhorst et al, 2003;Wakefield, 1998).…”

“…Seven authors described a reciprocal interaction between the psychological and sociopolitical environments (Birkenmaier, 2003;Bland & Renouf, 2001;Dean, 2004;Freud, 1999;Lee & Barrett, 2007;Vodde & Gallant, 2002;Wakefield, 1998). For example, pressures from the sociopolitical environment may adversely impact clients' psychological well-being (Freud, 1999;Wakefield, 1998). An 'upstream' approach emphasizes how clinical social work helps to foster internal change that may lead to empowerment and social and political change efforts among clients (Epple, 2007).…”

“…Authors also noted sociocultural and sociopolitical theories and models, such as ethnic-sensitive practice, the cultural context model, feminist practice theory, and policy-practice models, as integrating social justice in clinical practice (Epple, 2007;Freeman, 1996;Freud, 1999;Parker, 2003;Swenson, 1998). For example, the ethnic-sensitive practice orients the social workers to be aware of a client's cultural experiences and identities, acknowledge oppression, and recognize clients' sociopolitical environment (Parker, 2003;Swenson, 1998).…”

“…Feminist practice techniques focus on increasing clients' sociopolitical awareness. Clinicians also are expected to increase their self-awareness to evaluate their own power, privilege, and status issues (Epple, 2007;Freud, 1999;Gould, 2000;McLaughlin, 2002).…”

Evidence-Based Practice and the Borders of Data in the Global Information ERA

“…Even when evaluators are aware of evidence that is promulgated by esteemed authorities, that which coheres with their own experiences or beliefs about normality may seem more credible (Freud, 1999). Indeed, when making decisions for themselves, practitioners may demand levels of evidence quite different from whattheywould demand when making decisions for their clients.…”