Social Work-203 Social Welfare Policy II Framework for Policy Analysis 1. Assessment of Unmet Needs a. What particular need(s) or social problem(s) does this policy address? b. What are the dimensions of this problem or need, including the size and characteristics of the group affected? c. What changes in American society and what gaps in institutional performance of basic societal functions does this policy cover? d. If this is a policy proposal, how does it compare with the present policy and what are the major changes? How does it compare with other proposals addressing the same issue(s)? 2. Identification of Goals and Outcomes of this Policy. a. What are the goals or outcomes in terms of: 1. Greater (or less) social equality, that is, income or resource redistribution? 2. Greater (or fewer) opportunities for disadvantaged and oppressed groups? 3. Changing the power position of the poor in comparison to other groups? b. To what degree will this policy or proposal improve societal functioning? c. What will be the indirect or side effects of this policy or proposal, and will it generate other social problems? 3. Policy Implementation Strategies. a. Eligibility requirements—To whom are or will these benefits be allocated? b. What type of benefits are or will be provided—cash, vouchers, tax credit, tax deduction, material goods, or services? c. What type of organization and staff is or will be used in providing services? 4. History and Values a. What is the history of this policy or proposal? What developments led up to this policy or policy proposal? b. What interest groups support or oppose this policy/proposal and what is their rationale? c. What types of basic value premises are embodied in this policy or proposal? Are they consistent with social work values as stated in the Social Work Codes of Ethic? 5. Summary of the Argument For and Against this Policy or Policy Proposal.