ABSTRACT
This chapter examines relational processes, the structural components of relationships, and the implications of chronic disconnection within the context of family, group, and community. It provides a relational cultural framework which integrates relational theory, psychodynamic concepts, and feminist scholarship in the assessment process. Assessment is the heart of social work practice and the foundation upon which people's thinking and doing is based. An effective relational assessment emphasizes relational connections-linkages as well as disconnections-not only for information and evaluation purposes, but also as a primary target for intervention. Analyzing and synthesizing data in order to draw inferences about strengths and limitations, environmental resources and deficits, and level of client environment fit. A relational assessment does not preclude bio-psycho-social factors and attention to internal or intrapsychic issues in people's lives; rather it enhances the dimensions of a bio-psycho-social assessment. The feminist relational assessment approach to social work practice is embedded in a cultural context.
