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Models within Human Services #

Models within Human Services
Walden University
Tammy Arm
PSYCH2010-10

“All of the three models (Medical, Public Health, and Human Services) are used to deliver services today; some agencies may prefer one over the others, and one model may be more effective than the other two in certain situations.” (Woodside & McClam, 2011, p. 108)
The two models that I feel would be best suited in my career choice would be the Public Health Model and the Human Services Model. The Public Health Model differs from the Medical Model in ways of the recipients of the services and methodologies of treatment. While the Medical Model focuses on the individual, the Public Health Model focuses more so on groups in the population. “The Public Health Model treats the individual client, while it also emphasizes preventing the problem through supporting activities such as the use of films, speakers, school programs, and pamphlets, all aimed at educating the population about the problem.” (Woodside & McClam, 2011, p. 109) This model views mental disorders as a result of the pressures or disorder within society or environment, and it is evaluated in its effect not only on the person but on the general public as well. The way in which I see this model assisting me in my career choice as a Human Service Worker/Assistant, is being able to assess such clients that may have mental disorders or issues such as panic attacks that can leave a person feeling inadequate or dysfunctional amongst their community or peers, then after assessing them guiding them towards programs or other resources available to better help them understand their situation. It is from this point that we begin to introduce the individual back to society as a productive member, once they are educated about their issue and know the steps to take to cope with it. The Public Health Model can also assist young mothers and fathers with birth control and education therein to family planning. All of which is vital to the overall well-being of individuals within our society. Once a person is educated into their situation we stand a better chance for change, it is the unaware or uneducated that pose a threat not only to their own well-being, but the well-being of those in their community as well. “The Human Service Model is concerned with the interaction between the individual and the environment, and stresses the balance between the two.” (Woodside & McClam, 2011, p. 109) We have discussed the medical and the public health models and how they focus on the medical and public health aspects, this model focuses on the interpersonal and environmental conflicts that result from the disorders that affect many clients. Within this model such disorders as genetic predispositions, biochemical imbalances, faulty learning, lack of insight into behavior that may be considered inappropriate, physical and mental disability, or influences from the social environment. This model works with the client and the environment/public. This model partners with people and institutions that may help the client and or their environment. The title of this model speaks for itself, Human Services. Both of these models are a vital part in the “Holarchy of Health”, in all parts of it the methods of these two models can be utilized to achieve the desired results. (Kurt C. Stange, 2009)

References

Kurt C. Stange, M. P. (2009). A Science of Connectedness. Ann Fam Med, 387-395.
Woodside, M., & McClam, T. (2011). An Introduction Human Services (7th ed.). Thompson Brooks/Cole.