A Cognitive Emotional Methodology for Critical Thinking

Edward P. Hanna

Social Work, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Kutztown, Kutztown, USA.

DOI: 10.4236/aasoci.2013.31003                

Abstract

This essay provides a theoretical foundation for a cognitive emotional methodology for critical thinking that is currently being utilized by the author in undergraduate and graduate social work advanced seminar classes. Through a review of the literature, the paper suggests that most approaches to teaching critical thinking do not integrate cognitive emotional criteria in the teaching method, and this is problematic for social work education. Citing recent literature about teaching empathy and values, and merging that work with clinical theory and practice, a theoretical foundation is established for a methodology that is in its formative stages. The methodology and its constructs are described. Although the methodology is presented though the vehicle of social work education, it is asserted that the methodology has broader utility.

Keywords

Critical Thinking; Decision Making; Social Work; Social Work Education

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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