Final Paper. Resiliency. Social Sciences Term Paper

About the final assignment:
This assignment is designed to foster your ability to utilize and evaluate research on human behavior in the social context and to provide empirically based insight into applied social problems and social work practice. In 10-12 pages (double spaces, 1” margins, 12 point font) create a strong and succinct analysis of the interview using the articles your outlined in the lit review. It is likely that this paper will only include a portion of the articles you reviewed in the midterm- there is no minimum or maximum of references to use for this paper as long as you are supporting your argument with the research literature. You are also free to add new articles if necessary. The final paper should be no more than 12 pages (double spaces, 1” margins, 12 point font). The page limit does not include references or title page, which should be in APA style.
There are many ways to write a wonderful paper. Different students will handle the same subject matter differently and in equally terrific ways depending on their own scholarly voice.. The best papers are those where your own voice, your ideas, your shaping of the material is evident. And it is presented through a well written, well organized, and well documented paper that begins with a clear thesis of what you want to say. The paper should include the following:
A clear thesis statement in the introduction of your paper;
A theory we reviewed in class, Ecological theory or Developmental Life Course Perspective, to frame your own critical analysis;
Articles from the literature review to support or counter your argument that are considered from a life course perspective;
A consideration of both risk and protective factors, including the role of race/gender/class;
A consideration of both micro and macro issues, as they relate to your topic;
Recommendations for future research or treatment (i.e. what is currently missing in the study of your topic?).
Do no summarize individual readings in a list fashion, or simply summarize the life story. Instead, incorporate substantive content/ findings in ways that contribute to an interpretation of some aspect of the person’s life (the paper’s overall argument). Be sure to also include an APA style reference list of the sources cited in the narrative. This paper is due on the last day of class and please note that 5% will be deducted for each day the paper is late.
Grading will be based on the following criteria:
A clear thesis statement in the introduction of your paper will address how multiple historical, geographic and social themes impacted the interviewee’s life trajectory (this thesis is the organizing statement that should be explained and carried throughout the paper – does the paper stick to the primary argument or get lost in tangential arguments?)
Clear and accurate explanation of how the theoretical framework, DLCP or Ecological theory, will be used to understand the multiple themes discussed;
Utilization of empirical evidence (in the transcript and in the literature) to support the thesis and to understand the impact of risk and protective factors in historical events, geographic characteristics, and/or social forces throughout the developmental life course;
Since HBSE is focused on explanations and etiologies of social/behavioral/psychological phenomena and not on treatment, focus on basic research studies and NOT treatment/intervention studies. Only use them to the extent to which they provide a review or help you understand risk and protection across development.
Consideration of both risk and protection as well as the role of race, class and/or gender;
Writing quality – In terms of organization and the use of proper spelling, grammar, citations, and a thesis and to use clear and concise language;
Evidence of original and thoughtful analysis/critical thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I go over 12 pages?
No. Stick within the page limits. You have 12 pages plus references.
How should I organize the paper?
There is no set format for organization – you will need to decide on an approach that works best for the narrative you’re developing (e.g. some may organize by chronological order and others may write by theme and others might write by risk or protective factors). You may wish to use headings to organize your paper. The purpose of the paper is not to provide a chronological summary of events. It should be written from the perspective of an analysis not just a recounting. A life course focused paper critically examines the social institutions, the social structures, and the historical, geographical, cultural context that shaped their opportunities.
How can I work with others on this assignment?
Working with a friend or starting a work group may be useful, particularly if you tend to procrastinate – you may use your group, for instance, to set a timeline for completing assignment related tasks and hold each other accountable. If you’re having trouble figuring out how historical events, social/cultural environment, or geographic location impacted the individual’s life course, talk to your classroom colleagues, listen to their ideas, or ask for help. We also strongly recommend scheduling appointments with the writing center throughout your work on the assignment (e.g. when you’re thinking about organization, set-up, feedback on a detailed outline, feedback on an early draft, etc.).
Should I have a reference page?
Yes. We are expecting you to find and use information about historical events, geographic locations, social and cultural norms and/or the importance of specific life events. We also expect you to use the research literature to support or counter your primary thesis. You will need to reference (APA only) these works. You will likely look at academic sources of information and may need to examine newspapers and/or governmental websites. You should also carefully consider guidelines regarding plagiarism.
Are there any common problems I should avoid?
Yes! Do not try to include every detail of the interview, or even every aspect of their story. A clear argument requires that you do not include information that is irrelevant to your main thesis. Stay focused! Also do NOT write a clinical analysis of the individual’s mental health. Instead, consider the social focuses that have impacted their life course.
Extra Info:
Final Paper has to
Include literature for both protective and risk factors (the most relevant ones)
Use ecological theory: the different levels-individually and how they interacted together
Talk about resiliency, eg., is more resiliency good? What leads to more resiliency?
Format Sample: (Headings)
Thesis statement
(ecological systems does not does not have to be in separate sections, they can intervene)
Impact of great depression
White supremacy
Sibling relationship
The importance of education
No conclusion