Authors: Gerdes, Karen E.; Stromwall, Layne K.

Source: Social Work, Volume 53, Number 3, July 2008 , pp. 233-242(10)

Publisher: National Association of Social Workers

Abstract:

Conation is action derived from instinct, purposeful mode of striving, volition. It is a conscious effort to carry out self-determined acts and, as such, may result in the same goal being approached by different individuals through the use of different actions. It is a critical, yet neglected aspect of the "tripartite" human mind, which is composed of cognitive, affective, and conative elements. Because most social workers are not familiar with the concept, client behavior that represents action toward a goal might not be understood or might be misunderstood. A true strengths-based approach to social work requires this understanding. The authors use case studies to describe conation and to demonstrate its applicability. They present examples of how clients' and social workers' conative ability are important to the assessment and intervention process and describe implications for research.

References: 3 references open in new window

Articles that cite this article?

Keywords: CONATION; CONATIVE ABILITIES; KOLBE THEORY; STRENGTHS PERSPECTIVE; TRIPARTITE MIND

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2008-07-01

More about this publication?

• Social Work is the premiere journal of the social work profession. Widely read by practitioners, faculty, and students, it is the official journal of NASW and is provided to all members as a membership benefit. Social Work is dedicated to improving practice and advancing knowledge in social work and social welfare. Its articles yield new insights into established practices, evaluate new techniques and research, examine current social problems, and bring serious critical analysis to bear on problems in the profession. Major emphasis is placed on social policy and the solutions to serious human problems.
• Editorial Board
• Information for Authors
• Subscribe to this Title
• Membership Information
• NASW Member/Subscriber access
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Social & Public Welfare ,  Social Science (General)
• By this author: Gerdes, Karen E. ;  Stromwall, Layne K.

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers