As a result of applying appropriate theory the organisation and structure of social work practice may be enhanced (Howe 1999:104). Social workers use theory to inform practice and provide a sense of direction and guidance in their professional engagement with service users
Conflict results from real or perceived opposition to one’s values, actions, desires or general interests. Conflicts may occur internally or externally between individuals or groups; conflict within a team environment can cause frustration, and occasionally anger. However, conflict resolution can also often generate positive results for the team. Conflict management skills remain in demand; conflict may be managed successfully by reaching an agreement that satisfies the needs of both the individual(s) and the team as a whole
Social work professions need to understand the importance of how individuals interact both with other people and their environment, to have an understanding how individuals are affected by these interactions (Rogers, p. 2). According to Rogers (2016), “Social workers are knowledgeable about human behavior across the life course; the range of social systems in which people live; and the ways social systems promote or deter people in maintaining or achieving health and well-being. Social workers apply theories and knowledge from the liberal arts to understand biological, social, cultural, psychological, and spiritual development (p. 2). Their work with clients begins with assessments to evaluations of intervention and is based in and supports of the core value system of the profession.
Social work practice works with many people in different situations, needing concise help from professionals. This assistance includes a range of skills such as; identifying the problem or problems, apply and use evidence based practice and theories and critical reflection. All these skills are integral parts of best practice in social work, and are needed by all service users.
During this time, I expect to learn and gain hands-on social work experience in the field. Also, I want to learn how to use and apply social theory into my practice. I want to build and gain the relationship with my field/task supervisors and colleagues. Moreover, I want to gain the opportunity to develop the personal and professional identity. Lastly, I will learn how to use my experience from my practicum setting to practice in the social work field in the future.
This field is important because it allows social workers to play an integral part in assisting patients, some of who have been kept in large inpatient facilities for vast periods of time, to become functioning and active members of society, as they deal with
While the work of all human-service practitioners overlaps in numerous ways, the field of social work is unique because social workers are concerned about human behavior in the context of social environment.
In the social work profession it is not uncommon to work with diverse groups of people. Whether they be victims of domestic violence, suffering from addiction, or working with children who have been abused or neglected, the fact is this profession was created and continues to exist because of someone else’s problems. The job of social workers, or any other practitioner, is to help these people and give them the tools they need in order to succeed. But what exactly is needed in order to do this?
I believe that social work comes hand and hand, when it comes to domestic violence.
It is important to keep in mind that although there may be conflicting views either amongst professionals or clients, to be aware of those biases and self-reflect on why they maybe arising with the particular issue. Furthermore, because of the work that social workers are involved in, they are constantly surrounded by conflicts and/or opposing views. Therefore, part of the social worker’s responsibility is to manage conflict in an effective and productive manner. This includes being authentic and relating in a natural, sincere, and genuine manner to others colleagues, professionals, and clients. By showing others that both should be contributing to the relationship, it allows room to facilitate growth for the client, group, and environment.
According to College Board, social workers are required to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. Acceptable bachelor’s degree programs for entry level jobs include the bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), as well as sociology, psychology and related fields. However, most jobs will require a master’s in social work (MSW). The Council on Social Work Education recognized 467 bachelor’s programs and 196 master’s programs in June 2009. Accredited bachelor’s degree programs require a minimum of 400 hours of supervised experience, whereas master’s degree programs require 900 hours of supervised experience. [ (CollegeBoard.org, 2012) ]
The two key elements in successful practice are the social workers ability to guide clients through the phases of the change process and assist clients in making decisions that will result in enhancement of their social functioning or the improvement of a social condition (Bradford W. Sheafor, 2008, p. 52). Social workers select and use specific techniques that have been individualized to the needs and situation of the client or client group being served, and the resources that are applied to help resolve the client’s problem or concern (Bradford W. Sheafor, 2008, p. 51).
Strong organizational skills is a quality most social workers should possess, because of the nature of the career where you’ll have multiple clients and one time. Also, most people are in a crisis when you are needed therefore, these skill can provide reassurance, that you can handle the difficult task of helping them. According to an online article called, The Ten Essential Traits of Successful Social Workers, “being organized on the back end also frees up your time so you can focus on helping your clients, and they will take comfort in the fact that you are on top of things.” (&Ten Essential Traits of Successful Social Workers | SocialWorkDegree.net,& n.d.) In my
Conflict is inescapable, having the ability to recognize, understand, and resolve conflicts are important in both personal and professional lives. Myatt (2012) states that conflict in the workplace is unavoidable; if left unresolved, workplace conflict may result in loss of productivity and the creation of barriers that can inhibit creativity, cooperation, and collaboration. It is vital to embrace conflict and address problems through effective conflict-resolution tactics because if not handled appropriately, conflict will escalate. “If not handled properly, conflict may significantly affect employee morale, increase turnover, and even result in litigation, ultimately affecting the overall well-being of
For many of us, every day is a struggle to avoid conflict. Yet avoidance is practically impossible since the core characteristics, ideas and beliefs of each individual often conflict with our own. Differences of opinion, competitive zeal, and misinterpretations, among other factors, can all generate ill feelings between co-workers within an organization. While we can’t avoid conflict, we can learn how to sidestep negative confrontations by becoming familiar with the types of conflicts that most commonly arise in the work place and by learning how to resolve them.