What Makes a Good Social Worker?

¶ … Social Worker

The National Association of Social Workers defines social work as "...the professional activity of helping individual, groups, or communities to enhance or restore their capacity for social functioning and to create societal conditions favorable to this goal."

Most social workers understand this goal, but the best social workers have a true understanding of why their role is so desperately required in today's society. This understanding comes through an appreciation of history as well as real-life working and personal experiences that underscores the lessons of time.

British sociologist Nigel Horner cites changes that emerged in the mid nineteenth century as a result of industrialization that have led to social upheaval and the resulting need for social work. These include mass urbanization, high levels of labor migration, extreme exploitation of labor, religious turmoil, high levels of illness, disease and infant mortality and the disintegration of traditional social relations of mutual obligation and care.

As a foster care provider, I have seen first hand the pain of an abandoned child and believe it is society's duty to help fill the void caused by a breakdown of the traditional family structure. Making a child feel special and loved for the first time has been one of the greatest sources of joy in my life.

Unequal distribution of power, status, authority, resources and/or opportunities are inequalities that sociologist Neil Thompson describes as being sewn in to the fabric of society. This stratification, according to Thompson, leads inevitably to winners and losers. However, Thompson states that social work is more than a desire to help the less fortunate, good practice requires intellectual skills such as analysis, reflection and adopting a critical perspective.

My previous experience also includes working with mentally ill patients and the unemployed while at a job centre. I am currently a volunteer at a youth justice team and regularly attend panel meetings. As Neil Thompson points out, my role has involved much more than personal dedication to those in need. I have had to assess and interview patients, provide counseling and advice, and liaise with individuals from all walks of life. My youth justice team participation has required tremendous inter-agency collaboration. And, I've had to learn how to deal with a lot of hurt and pain. As I become more involved in social work, I am aware that the demands of the job will require significant training and a broader range of skills.