How can you use conflict theory in social work?

1 What is conflict theory?

Conflict theory is based on the ideas of Karl Marx, who argued that capitalism creates a class conflict between the owners of the means of production (the bourgeoisie) and the workers who sell their labor (the proletariat). According to Marx, the bourgeoisie exploits the proletariat by paying them low wages, extracting surplus value, and controlling the dominant ideology. The proletariat, however, can challenge the bourgeoisie by developing a class consciousness, forming unions, and engaging in collective action. Conflict theory has been expanded by other scholars to include other forms of inequality, such as race, gender, ethnicity, religion, and sexuality.

3 How to use conflict theory in social work research?

Conflict theory can be a powerful tool for social workers to conduct research that addresses the social issues affecting their clients and communities. It can also help challenge the dominant paradigms and methods that may exclude or marginalize the voices and experiences of oppressed groups. For instance, conflict theory can be used to formulate research questions that focus on the causes and consequences of social inequality and conflict, choose research methods that are participatory, emancipatory, and action-oriented, collect and analyze data that reflect the perspectives and realities of participants, and disseminate and apply research findings in ways that promote social awareness and action.

4 How to use conflict theory in social work advocacy?

Conflict theory can help social workers to advocate for social change and justice at individual, organizational, community, or policy levels. It also allows them to align their efforts with the values and principles of the profession, such as human rights, dignity, diversity, and solidarity. For instance, conflict theory can be used to identify issues and goals that are relevant to clients and communities, mobilize them in advocacy activities such as lobbying or protesting, analyze and critique policies that create social inequality and conflict, and propose alternative policies that are more equitable and democratic.

5 What are the limitations of conflict theory?

Conflict theory is not without its limitations and criticisms, such as being too pessimistic, deterministic, or radical for some clients, colleagues, or contexts. It may also be too simplistic, reductionist, or general for some situations, problems, or populations. Additionally, conflict theory may be too abstract, theoretical, or ideological for some purposes, audiences, or outcomes. It may overlook the positive aspects of society, the agency and diversity of individuals and groups, the complexity and specificity of social phenomena, the multiple dimensions of inequality and identity, and the variations and contradictions within and between groups. Furthermore, it may lack empirical evidence, practical applicability, or ethical sensitivity.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?