Lesson 8: Taking Histories

Attention

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this lesson's material, students will be able to:

• Describe how to gather and document a client's social history

Teaching

Read Chapter 16

Gathering information for the social history is very important. This information helps determine your impressions and recommendations for treatment.

A "social history" is a description of the history of the problem that has brought the client to services. It also includes all the relevant background information about the person because these factors may contribute to the problem as well.

We might envision this as the persons' "story".

DETAILS are what are important...you may have heard the saying that the "Devil is in the details"...this might be true, but the solution to the problem is often there as well!

This is why it is so important to NOT jump to conclusions and solutions too early in the case management relationship...take the time to get to know the details of the story.

Assessment

The outcomes of this Lesson are measured with the Special Assignment on Social Histories.

Lesson 8 Discussion

When we take a social history, our own cultural biases can affect the interview. Body language may belie an internal reaction. The questions that we ask may point more to our belief system than that of the clients. Even asking open ended questions can convey the path that we see for the client, as opposed to the path that the client may want to consider. These biases could come from our religious outlook, our view of certain behaviors or our own past experiences. Some biases may even mask themselves as compassion. Can we undermine a client as easily as empower them?

As you prepare for the associated Special Assignment on Social History, think about the biases that may affect you on the job. Identify one bias that you feel could be difficult for you to manage. Make a plan today to address that bias. Is this something that education can overcome? Do you need to avoid working with some populations? Should you do personal work before you get out into the field?