As of 2010, there were more than 650,000 social workers in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Social workers are among the largest providers of mental health services such as diagnosis and psychotherapy. But they also offer a vast range of services to help people in need, such as advocacy and crisis intervention. Social work has a number of distinguishing characteristics that make it one of the more diverse careers in the helping professions.
Focus on the Whole Person
When examining a presenting problem, or the reason a person seeks help, many helping professions focus solely on specific mental, physical or psychological states and problems. Social workers take into account the entire person and examine the effects of every aspect of that person's life on the presenting problem. This is known as the biopsychosocial, or "person-in-environment," perspective. Using this perspective, a social worker considers all of the biological, psychological and social traits, problems or circumstances that can have an impact on her client. Social workers understand that problems are generally caused by imbalances in the biopsychosocial system, says social worker Alice Lieberman in an article for Routledge's educational series, "New Perspectives in Social Work."
Respect for Multiculturalism
Respect for multiculturalism is another distinguishing characteristic of social work, according to social work professor Joseph Walsh in his book, "Theories for Direct Social Work Practice." Cultural competence is one the guiding principles for social work practice, as laid out by the National Association of Social Workers' Code of Ethics. This involves a focus on helping people from all walks of life and respecting the dignity of the individual, regardless of their ethnic, socioeconomic, religious or political beliefs. Social workers should avoid discrimination and demonstrate respect for all people.
The Strengths Perspective
Social workers operate from a strengths-based perspective. This is another defining characteristic of social work that involves focusing on clients' strengths as a way to help them solve problems and overcome life challenges. This doesn't mean that social workers turn a blind eye to potential weaknesses. Instead, social workers help clients discover and build on their strengths to help them become more proactive and responsible for their own lives. They know that people are often more resilient than they realize. Social workers offer insight and support to help clients realize their inherent strengths, but it is ultimately up to the client to take action to improve her situation and surmount obstacles.
Social Justice and Human Rights
Fighting for social justice and human rights are fundamental characteristics of social work, according the International Federation of Social Workers' Statement of Ethical Principles. Social workers believe that everyone has the right to self-determination. This means that social workers respect their clients' right to choose the correct course of action, even if they disagree with the decision or hold conflicting values. Social workers also try to promote justice in society, which means that they work to fight oppression, challenge discrimination and promote social inclusion for all people.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Social Workers? Summary
- Routledge.com: New Directions in Social Work: Biopsychosocial Perspectives
- Theories for Direct Social Work Practice: Joseph Walsh
- National Association of Social Workers: Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers
- International Federation of Social Workers: Statement of Ethical Principles
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