Teaching Fellow (Instructor of Record) & PhD Candidate Columbia School of Social Work
Offering critical analysis of the age-old "case study" assignment, oppressive lineages within social work education are critiqued through queer, trauma-informed, and consent-based lenses. Introducing “queer irreverence” as a subversive tool, exploitative practices and power imbalances present in case analysis are challenged, and strategies for liberatory pedagogy and practice are offered.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
Understand the Intersection of Queer Theory and Social Work: Attendees will learn how queer theory’s principles of resisting normativity and questioning power structures can be applied to critique and transform traditional practices in social work education and practice.
Recognize and Challenge Oppressive Practices: Participants will gain insight into how common practices in social work, such as the use of client case studies without consent, can perpetuate power imbalances and exploitation. They will explore alternatives that respect client autonomy and promote a more equitable clinical environment.
Apply Queer Irreverence in Clinical Practice: Attendees will leave with practical strategies for incorporating ‘queer irreverence’ into their clinical practices and educational approaches. This includes critically assessing the purpose and execution of case studies and other pedagogical tools to ensure they empower rather than dehumanize clients.
