developmental paradigm
Learning unit 1 p.1
Table of content
Social work .............................................................................................. 1
Professional values & principles aimed at: ................................................. 2
SW =: ............................................................................................. 2
SW as profession ........................................................................................ 3
Characteristics of SW as profession: ......................................................... 3
SWs ....................................................................................................... 3
Developmental SW ..................................................................................... 3
S aux W ................................................................................................ 3
Functions & goals of SW ............................................................................... 4
Functions: ............................................................................................. 4
Goals: .................................................................................................. 4
SW values & principles ................................................................................. 4
Code of ethics: ................................................................................. 4
4 Basic professional values relevant for intervention: .................................... 4
6 core SW values NASW with supporting principles........................................ 5
Code of ethics for SW profession ..................................................................... 5
Role of SACSSP .................................................................................. 5
Ethical decision-making ............................................................................... 6
What constitutes ethical dilemma ........................................................... 6
Generalist SW practice & specialist SW practice .................................................. 6
Core characteristics of SWs ........................................................................... 7
SW practice diverse context........................................................................ 7
Social work
SW practice = always influenced → political & socioeconomic context of time.
Always influence how SW = practiced, budget allocated for social work practice depends
philosophy of ruling party of particular country particular period.
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,SW = 1 of helping professions, developmental paradigm help clients deal with
problematic situations & makes effort – facilitate process of skills development equips
clients – deal with future problematic situations without help of social worker.
Core of profession = improve social functioning of indiv, family, groups & communities &
create opportunities for development.
Activity 1 p.3
Professional values & principles aimed at:
֎ Helping people – access tangible services
֎ Provide counselling & group therapy for indiv, family & group
֎ Help communities/groups provide/improve social & health services
֎ Participating relevant legislative processes
Aim = serve as facilitators of change lives of people – enable – achieve improved social
functioning.
SW give people advice, facilitate process allowing clients – own problems & grow during
process of resolving them.
SW practice occurs at local, regional & global levels.
International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) adopted def of SW:
Social work:
Practice-based profession & academic discipline promoting social change & development,
social cohesion & empowerment & liberation of people.
Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility & respect for diversities
= central – social work.
Underpinned → theories of SW, social sciences, humanities & indigenous knowledge, SW
engage people & strc – address life challenges & enhance wellbeing.
SW =:
֎ Profession
֎ Aim promoting social change among clients
֎ Aim working – growth & development lives of clients
֎ Aim empowering people
֎ Profession regarding social justice, human rights & respect for diversity as core
elements of practice
֎ Profession uses theories, models & approaches – intervene problematic situations,
taking indigenous context of clients consideration
Activity 2 p.4
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, SW as profession
Characterised → specific set values & principles regulating behaviour of SWs & adhere –
specific behaviour when dealing with clients.
Sets SW apart from other professions.
Characteristics of SW as profession:
֎ Indiv as holistic being
֎ Knowledge of community resources
֎ Integration of theory & practice
֎ Primary methods of intervention
֎ Statutory body
֎ Work-client relationship
֎ Multi-disciplinary profession
֎ Problem solving
֎ SW operates under auspices of welfare agency
֎ Belief strengths of client
֎ Rehab, prevention & developmental social welfare
֎ Team approach
SWs
Person qualified with bachelor of SW degree.
Person registered with professional body regulating how SW training & practice =
conducted & how client systems = handled → SWs.
Activity 3 p.7
Developmental SW
Developmental paradigm focus strengths of clients & empower them – become self-reliant.
S aux W
Any act/conduct practiced → S aux Ws under guidance & supervision of SW, - achieve aims
of SW.
All persons practicing as S aux Ws registered with relevant professional council: South
African Council for Social Service professions (SACSSP); provides professional recognition
& protects interest of profession & clients.
SACSSP requires – have at least basic understanding of SA Welfare context, related policies
& practices i.t.o. developmental social services & understanding role context.
Able – display basic understanding of human behaviour, relationship systems & social
issues.
Conduct = ethical all matters, reflecting values & principles contained Bill of Rights &
SW profession’s code of ethics.
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