Social work methods in practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Social work methods in practice - Essay Example This became the basis of therapeutic work; the use of physical surroundings and how people related to others to tackle psychological problems. (Anning et al, 2006) There are a number of procedures that may be followed when a social work is carrying out therapeutic work. Some of these include creation of an approachable and comfortable which allows the child to open up easily. The therapist must not hold any inhibitions or preconceived notions about the child for critical work. It is also imperative to ensure all feelings are read promptly and necessary action taken in response to these feelings. A social worker must not underestimate the child's capacity to resolve his/her own struggles. Children must be allowed to express themselves freely without the social worker trying to steer the conversation in a certain direction. Ample time should also be given to the therapeutic session so that all the underlying aspects of the problem are uncovered. Lastly, the social worker must ensure that some boundaries have been sent because children need boundaries to make them feel protected. Boundaries also reinforce the child's feelings of trust towards the social worker. One should also ensure that they let the child know that whatever the child is confiding in them will remain confidential. (Beckett and Walker, 2004) The model is Why the model is a form of good working practise The model is appropriate because it has shown a good share of results. In a study done on some children who had been institutionalised and then taken through therapeutic care, it was found that majority of the children did not go back to the institution and showed positive result in their behaviour. (Trevithick, 2006) Research has also shown that children who undergo therapy when displaying symptoms of constant delinquency have less chances of being confined. These children have also been reported to showing fewer outbursts or they do so in fewer days than before they started the therapy. This model of social work is also good working practise because it deals with children exhibiting socially deviant behaviour. It has resulted in less chance of children running away from their homes especially those who have been adopted. Lastly, the model helps children with low self esteem because it makes them feel important. It also helps children who lack a self identity. Through the interactions between the child and the social worker, definition of what determines a child's identity are set and it becomes possible for the child to be able to relate well with all the people surrounding them. This is due to the fact that a chid will be able to relate well with all other people surrounding them. (Trevithick, 2006) Advantages and disadvantages of therapeutic work with children Advantages This model is quite flexible. It allows children to express themselves in an environment that is natural and free t them. Such an environment has always been accredited with giving good results as it breaks down barriers between the social worker and the child. This flexibility does not in any way compromise the centre of the method. This is because there are a number of limits and boundaries that are set by the counsellor and children are able to work within these limits. (Hill, 1999) The method has a strong theoretical basis. It is important for a model to merge theoretical values with a practical approach. This