Changing the structure and patterns of interaction within a family results in changes in the behavior of each family member (Franklin & Jordan, 1999). Family interventions aim to remove problematic patterns of family interaction rather than focusing on changing the behavior of an individual. Family assessment approaches, such as Bowen's Genogram, are also used in practice. The Ecomap, for example, is a popular family assessment tool developed within social work and helps social workers to map family communication and relationships between the family and other systems (Hartman & Laird, 1983). Family interventions in social work practice are guided by systems theory and are, therefore, concerned with structure and interactions within the family as well as interactions between the family members and larger systems (Franklin & Jordan, 1999). Early contributors to family therapy pioneered interventions based on systems theories. 'Practitioners began to define presenting problems in terms of family dynamics, and goals for treatment focused on changing patterns of family interaction. Assessment, In Encyclopedia of Social Work.

Specifically, assessment guides treatment planning, as well as informs intervention selection and monitoring.' Both quantitative and qualitative methods may be used to create an integrative skills approach that links assessment to intervention. Early assessment models were based on psychoanalytic theory however, current assessment is based on brief, evidence-based practice models. 'Assessment is an ongoing process of data collection aimed at identifying client strengths and problems.

Measurement instruments can be used as part of assessment and evaluation.

For graphic assessment tools, go to Genogram and Ecomap.

Assessment is a continual process from engagement to termination.

Cultural genogram social work