In the July 1957 issue of Social Work
Cited five basic attributes of professions.
I. Systematic Theory
Not superior skill, but the nature of the skill
Knowledge organized into a body of theory based on
that describe the classes of phenomena
comprising the profession's focus of interest
Preparation to practice must be intellectual as well as practical experience
But, a profession can't be “bound to its theory” but must have “rationality.”
Willingness to replace any aspect of theory with newer formulations that are more valid
Explains a division of labor in many professions between practice and research
Causes the “body of knowledge to increase”
Professional Authority stems from the contrast between:
The extensive education that Imparts a professional knowledge
the comparative ignorance of lay people
The difference is illustrated in the difference between
clients [professionals] Clients must rely on what the professional determines and must either seek other counsel or accede to professional judgment
customers [non-professionals] Customers determine what service he wants/needs, and shops around to find them
Recent societal changes have eroded this professional authority since Greenwood 's time.
III. Community Sanction
Certain powers and privileges enforced through community police powers
Minimum criteria to enter profession
Like having a monopoly, granted by government
This explains why many non-professional occupations seek professional status
IV. Ethical Codes
Uniquely professional, to the point that “ethical” has often been considered “professional”
Essentials are uniform, and describe
proper client/professional relations, and
proper professional/professional relations
Professionals must be motivated less by self interest and more by quality, as defined by the needs and interests of the client and the public
Non-professionals in contrast can withhold service on rather arbitrary basis, and can dilute the quality of his commodity or service to fit the size of the client's pocketbook
Compliance with ethical standards must be enforced by the profession
V. A Culture
Social Value: The service that a professional provides to society is so vital that regulation is required to prevent unqualified persons from performing them.
Norms: There are proper ways to behave, e.g. to progress within the profession, to securing appointments, to make referrals, to obtain clients.
Symbols: Insignia, emblems, distinctive dress, history, forklore, buzzwords.
Copyright 2004 Richard Cheeks
All Rights Reserved