Typologies in social work practice

Two examples of diagnostic-intervention typologies are presented as derived from case record review. A multidimensional classification combines the origin, location, and identification (via family diagnosis) of children's "behavior problems" with treatment strategies for each of the six types. In the second example, a prescriptive typology of families with a newly diagnosed retarded child draws upon family and crisis theories to help define problem areas of family functioning. The typologies are suggested as tools but not stereotypes for clinical social work practice.