Helping Theories

A helping theory can describe what one is doing and why. These theories can help us to be objectively and subjectively involved in the helping process. There are limitations as well; generalizations can be made from rigid observations, we can be stuck in our own theory and not see other perspectives, and we must be careful not to oversimplify or generalize circumstances. Some theories of helping are listed below. Can you think of any others? According to Brammer and MacDonald (2003, p. 176), the following general theories can applied in helping processes:

Phenomenological: In a phenomenological approach to helping others, the focus is on recognizing and respecting each person’s unique perspective of reality. The helper understands that they can glimpse into the client’s extraordinary world (Brammer & MacDonald, 2003).

Behaviour: This approach involves objectively observing behaviour and the individual’s environment to emphasize learning and modify behaviour (Brammer & MacDonald, 2003).

Rational: This theory focuses on rationality, with cognitive methods being applied in the treatment of stress-related conditions like anxiety and depression, as outlined by Brammer and MacDonald (2003).

Family System Theory: This theory focuses on individualism. Practitioners view the world from a linear cause-and-effect perspective, emphasizing autonomous decision making and independent action. Followers of this theory view working with those in need as interconnected components of a system, whether it be a family or a large institution (Brammer & MacDonald, 2003).

Multicultural: According to Brammer and MacDonald (2003), to enhance professional relationships between clients and providers through cultural analysis, competent practitioners need to adopt a cross-cultural viewpoint by acknowledging their own biases and examining their own culture. Social Work Degree Guide (n.d.) stated that embracing multicultural thinking involves welcoming marginalized groups into a broader cultural framework and ensuring their full inclusion.

Feminist Theory: Feminist theory provides a unique perspective; the focus is on the experience of women “as a result of bias, stereotyping, oppression, discrimination, and other factors, and how those stressors can negatively affect their mental health” (Psychology Today, 2022). This can be expanded to include constructs of gender when helping others, how gender roles, gender stereotypes, and gender identity impact people’s lived experiences, the ability to access resources, and the ability to feel safe expressing themselves fully.

Critical Race Theory (CRT): Defined by Sawchuk (2021), CRT posits that “race is a social construct, and that racism is not merely the product of individual bias or prejudice, but also something embedded in legal systems and policies.” This theory acknowledges the history of social hierarchies based on the social construct of race that have privileged some and excluded others. This theory is complex, and has generated a lot of different perspectives. For the purpose of this course, it is useful to understand how social constructs of race are embedded in systemic barriers.

By developing a personal theory of helping, we can better understand contrasting philosophies and attitudes of helping, and position ourselves more reflectively in the process of helping.