This essay is going to analyse and evaluate an interview between a service user (actor) and a social worker (myself) in regards to the use of communication skills and the theoretical framework that underpins those skills. Firstly, the essay is going to look into definitions of communication skills and secondly we will analyse the interview interaction and relevant communication theories.
According to Trevithick (2005, p 116) ‘good communication skills, particularly listening and interviewing skills lie at the heart of social work practice’. Barker (2003, p83, cited in Trevithick 2005, p 116) defines communication as ‘the verbal and non verbal exchange of information, including all the ways in which knowledge is transmitted and received’. Moreover, the National Occupational Standards for Social Work (NOSSW, 2002) stipulate that communication skills are an essential requirement for social work practice / social workers. Wilson et al (2008, p297) further argue that effective communication is underpinned by fundamental skills such as ‘the ability to demonstrate empathy, respect and authenticity’. Looking at the above evidence, it could be argued that effective communication/ communication skills is an essential social work tool. This essay is now going to analyse relevant communication skills that were /could be used in the interview assessment/ exercise.
Trevithick, (2005, p144-145) argue that interview preparation is essential in order to identify the needs and / or expectations of all parties involved. Prior to the interview I was given a scenario which described in detail the background of a service user, Michelle, and the issues that needed to be addressed. Michele’s girlfriend, Charlie had suffered a stroke and was recovering ...
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...ace’. Egan (2010, p131) argues that empathic response can be very comforting when accompanied of body language which Egan (2010) refers to as ‘visibly tuning in’. Furthermore, Wilson et al (2008, p298) argue that in order to become emotionally attuned the interviewer should pay close attention to the service user’s verbal and body language.
The final part of the interview focused on Egan’s second stage: ‘The preferred picture’. In this stage, the ‘counsellor helps clients to explore and chose possibilities for a better future’. Egan (2010, p75). It could be argued that due to time constraints we could not explore this stage in depth although we managed to identify and focus on one of Michelle’s main concern. Michelle said that she was worried about their future in terms of finances and how they would cope if Charlie was not able to go back to work in the future.
This class, Social Work Theory & Practice was made to be able to introduce me to social work theories, ideas, and skills needed to work in the social work profession. This class main tool used was a book called A Brief Introduction of Social Work Theory by David Howe which discusses social work theories in a compressive and explainable way. This class is important to my higher learning because it break down the theories that I will need to use during my practice and a...
Egan Model’s second step is new perspectives; this is where the counselor is helping the client to identify blind spots and helping to pick out any new pe...
This assignment will give a reflective account of two main communication skills that are important for relationship-based practice in social work. Relationship based practice is important in social work, this establishes a positive relationship with professionals and service users. In agreement of Carl Rogers (2012) and Threvithick (2012) it is vital to establish relationship based practice because it demonstrates social workers are trustworthy and dependable, this will enable the service users feel more confident to disclose information, be more open rather than distrustful and taking all the support in consideration rather than being wary. Relationship based practice supports unpretentious approach with service users and carries out progressive
Interviewing and research skills are needed within the social work profession. Effective communication skills are one of the most crucial components of a social worker’s job. Every day, social workers must communicate with clients to gain information, convey critical information and make important decisions (Zeiger, 2017). This interview experience was an opportunity to explore the daily challenges and rewards of a licensed social worker. I was excited for the opportunity to interview a social worker in the gerontology sector as this is a specialty I am considering. This meeting allowed me to explore the educational steps of being a social worker, practices of the agency, the clients who are served, and the challenges the agency has.
It will also consider how breakdowns in ‘effective communication’ (K101, Unit 8, P134) occur as a result of barriers arising, including ‘Physical Environment, Disability and Impairment, Attitudes, Cultural Differences and Emotions and Feelings (K101, Unit 8, P136). This can ‘dis-empower’ services users leading to an identity being imposed on them which may generate feelings of insecurity and worthlessness and deny them the right to a voice. Similarly, evidence will be provided to show care workers applying skills to develop strategies which aid in the process of overcoming these barriers. The evidence produced in this essay will be taken from case studies based on oral history and life story work. Both strategies grant service users the ability to talk about their past experiences, discover who they are and develop a sense of identity, thus providing them with feelings of confidence, security and self-esteem.
Thompson, N (2005) Understanding Social Work: Preparing for Practice, Palgrave, MacMillan (Second Edition) Hampshire (Supplementary Course Reader)
3. Interviewing skills, which are used daily in the field of social work. Questioning clients is a very important part in assessing the client. Learning how to use open-ended as well as close-ended questions at the appropriate times is crucial when assessing the client. Asking questions is a powerful tool in focusing conversational attention and guiding interaction with others. There are many creative possibilities in using interviewing skills.
Thank you so much for taking time to meet with me yesterday for an informational interview. I especially appreciated learning about how great of a difference you have been able to make in your respective positions throughout your time at General Mills.
Working with others and improving own learning and performance are highly essential skills in social work. In this essay I will reflect on how well I have developed these two skills and what I need to do to improve them.
Watson, D & West, J 2006, Social work process and practice: approaches, knowledge, and skills, Palgrave Macmillan, Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire; New York.
To inspire and influence others, a leader must possess many skills and abilities. As motivational speaker Peter Northouse, states, “a leader should be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant” (Northouse, 2013) Moving an entire group of individuals toward a singular goal is a considerable undertaking. Without effective communication skills and a clear vision of what needs to be accomplished, one will feel like they are trying to herd cats rather than leading.
When we were first given this assignment I had not put much consideration into it. I thought we were to ask a couple of questions, it would all work itself out and I would be done. But this was not the case. The thought and reflection put into interview questions really surprised me. There was far more factors other than the questions you were asking, because you were also dealing with people, people who are giving you there free time, their attention and opening themselves up to you a stranger, so there were far more responsibilities then what were initially at hand.
In the careers in social work class, I learned so much about how to prepare for an interview and about everybody mistakes people makes about job search. For example, “before an interview learn how to conduct a research, find out about the job, and record your interview and look back at it”. These idea points will help me prepare for a job interview in the near future. Dr. Baracka gave us some good viewpoints about what to do before, day of, and after an interview. These guidelines will help me when it comes time for me to do an interview, and I will be prepared ever time.
Describe your understanding of the social work profession and its core values. How have you incorporated social work values in your human service experiences and interactions with others? What significant relationships and life experiences have you had in giving or receiving help that have motivated you to enter the field of social work? What personal qualities equip you for the social work profession? Discuss your experiences and feelings about the working with populations different from your own.
This reflective essay has critically reviewed my personal and professional skills that are essential for communication and developing positive relationships with others. It has discussed the skills identified in the skills audit that I needed more confidence in for communication and effective relationships. It has finally linked two communication theories to both skills