Social Construction Discovery

Consider the following question as one possible basic framework for describing the basic elements of social policy:On what basis, does who, do what, to whom, toward what end, at what benefit, at what cost, with what consequences (including unintended).

For now we will focus on the first element of the question, On What Basis? This is the reason for the policy, or if you will, a clue as to the social construction of the policy.

When analyzing a policy ask yourself, what theory, view of human nature, identified problem (how identified, supported by facts or science) informs this policy or is put forward to justify it. Following on your exercise on ageism as it shapes policies affecting mainly elderly people, their families and communities, with your team:

1. Build on last week’s exercise by identifying a questionable narrative (either one your team found the preceding week or one or more that you choose) to theorize about the basis of a policy that reflects the questionable narrative. Write your theories down in the form of general problem statements, (e.g.: Ageism, indicated by the term, “greedy geezer” that pits older citizens against the welfare of young workers is based on false science about Medicare and Social Security recipients).

2. Research the theory you have identified, and come up with at least one piece of solid, reputable evidence to support your claims. ​​​​​​​

• ​​​Are you confident about your research source?
• Does follow up research need to be done? If so, where? ​​​​​​​​

• Where do you see your role as social workers in being an advocate for change?
• What are different ways that you can effect policy for the benefit of changing certain narratives about aging? ​

• What skills do each of you bring to the challenge of effecting both the narrative and policies around the aging?
• How might your personal or professional experiences qualify you for a unique role in this project?
• What would that role be? Define it.