Introduction
Etiological diagnosis is a method of identifying the root causes or origins of a client’s problems. It goes beyond the symptoms and focuses on understanding why a particular issue is occurring.
Purpose in Social Case Work
In case work, etiological diagnosis helps the social worker develop a deeper understanding of the client’s background, environment, and psychological condition.
Key Aspects
- Examines social, emotional, cultural, and economic factors
- Involves gathering data from the client, family, and environment
- Used to design effective treatment and intervention plans
Example
If a child shows aggressive behavior, the worker may trace it back to domestic violence at home. This is an etiological approach to understanding behavior.
Conclusion
Etiological diagnosis is an important step in the helping process. It provides the foundation for meaningful and targeted intervention.