What are effective strategies for engaging community members skeptical of social work?
Learn from the community’s knowledge. Experts are adding insights into this AI-powered collaborative article, and you could too.
This is a new type of article that we started with the help of AI, and experts are taking it forward by sharing their thoughts directly into each section.
If you’d like to contribute, request an invite by liking or reacting to this article. Learn more
— The LinkedIn Team
Social work is a profession that aims to improve the well-being of individuals, groups, and communities, especially those who face oppression, discrimination, or marginalization. However, not everyone is familiar with or supportive of the role and value of social work in society. Some community members may be skeptical, distrustful, or hostile towards social workers, either due to personal experiences, cultural beliefs, or misinformation. How can social workers engage these community members effectively and respectfully, and build trust and collaboration? Here are some strategies that may help.
Before approaching any community, it is important to understand the historical, cultural, and political context that shapes their perceptions and attitudes towards social work. For example, some communities may have experienced trauma, violence, or oppression from institutions or authorities that social workers are associated with, such as child welfare, criminal justice, or immigration. Some communities may have different values, beliefs, or norms that conflict with the principles or practices of social work, such as individualism, collectivism, spirituality, or gender roles. Some communities may have limited or inaccurate information about what social workers do, how they can help, or what their rights and responsibilities are. By doing research, listening, and learning, social workers can gain a deeper understanding of the community's needs, strengths, and challenges, and avoid assumptions, stereotypes, or judgments.
-
Donna Dopwell, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor and Director of Social Work at Tennessee State University
It is important to lead with honesty and integrity. We can honor the fact that the helping professions have not always done right by the people they are expected to serve. We can then remind skeptical individuals that social workers are expected to continue growing and learning, and to adjust our practices based on knowledge about improved interventions. And we must practice what we preach. The more that people see us behaving as we are meant to, the greater the chances that over time we will gain their trust.
2
-
Magnus Nzenwa, SW, MSc, MCCPPA, MC-ISOWN, Arc
Licensed Medical /Gerontologist Social Worker|| Mental Health Social Worker || Qualitative Researcher
In my line of duty as a social worker, i have discovered that awareness and sensitization is an effective tool when trying to reposition existing perceptions and the deconstruction of negative beliefs in different communities.
1
-
Liz Pruitt, MSW, LSW
Licensed Mental Health Therapist
One community not mentioned is the conservative movement, which believes social workers align with leftist politics and we are, therefore, misaligned from Christ. However, many social workers are Christians who consider their work a calling to seek justice and acknowledge the inequities in the United States, such as structural racism. Social workers come from diverse backgrounds, but we all uphold the principles of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and recognize and work to change injustice, just as Christ would.
Building rapport is essential for engaging community members who are skeptical of social work. Rapport is the feeling of connection, trust, and respect that develops between people through communication and interaction. To establish rapport, social workers need to be genuine, empathic, and respectful, and show interest and curiosity in the community's culture, history, and stories. They also need to be transparent, honest, and accountable, and explain their role, purpose, and goals clearly and openly. They need to acknowledge the power dynamics and potential barriers that may exist between them and the community, and address any concerns or questions that may arise. They need to use appropriate and respectful language, tone, and body language, and adapt to the community's communication style and preferences.
-
Dionne Spooner
Independent Clinical Social Worker
Rapport does not happen immediately, it requires the social worker to develop trust through behaviors and action. The social worker must adapt to meet the needs of the community not the other way around. It requires persistence and authenticity. To many times, social workers miss this essential step that must continue throughout the process.
-
Shmuel Sheiner - Kohn, LMSW
Clinical Social Worker at: ODA Primary Health Care Network.
Start by listening to their skepticism instead of becoming defensive. Entering the world of listening, understanding, helping and vulnerability etc. is not easy. Starting off by listening and validating their concerns will probably add to their engagement in your role and in the process.
One of the best ways to engage community members who are skeptical of social work is to involve them in the process of identifying, planning, and implementing solutions to their issues. This means inviting them to share their opinions, perspectives, and ideas, and listening to them attentively and respectfully. It also means valuing their knowledge, skills, and resources, and recognizing their contributions and achievements. It also means collaborating with them as partners, rather than imposing solutions or decisions on them. By involving the community, social workers can demonstrate their respect, trust, and commitment to the community, and empower them to take ownership and responsibility for their own well-being.
-
Paulo Leocadio
Innovator in Digital Transformation | AI & Machine Learning Researcher | Cloud Technology Advocate
Initiate open dialogues to understand concerns and incorporate community input into program design. Showcase tangible, positive outcomes of social work initiatives, emphasizing their direct impact. Collaborate with local leaders and influencers to vouch for the legitimacy and benefits of social work efforts. Implement educational initiatives to demystify social work processes and highlight the empowering aspects. Emphasize cultural competence and sensitivity to community values, ensuring that interventions align with local needs. Building relationships over time and demonstrating a genuine commitment to community well-being can gradually break down skepticism and foster a more positive perception of social work initiatives.
Another effective strategy for engaging community members who are skeptical of social work is to create alliances with other individuals, groups, or organizations that have established relationships or credibility with the community. These may include community leaders, elders, advocates, mentors, peers, volunteers, or service providers. By creating alliances, social workers can leverage the existing trust, influence, and expertise of these allies, and gain access, support, and feedback from the community. They can also learn from their allies' experiences, insights, and best practices, and coordinate their efforts and resources to avoid duplication or conflict. They can also show their respect and appreciation for the community's culture, values, and networks, and foster a sense of solidarity and collaboration.
Finally, engaging community members who are skeptical of social work requires constant evaluation and adaptation. Social workers need to monitor and assess the effectiveness and impact of their engagement strategies, and seek feedback and input from the community and their allies. They need to be open to learning, reflection, and change, and acknowledge and address any mistakes, challenges, or conflicts that may occur. They need to celebrate and share the successes and achievements of the community, and recognize and appreciate their efforts and participation. They also need to be flexible, creative, and responsive, and adjust their strategies according to the changing needs, preferences, and circumstances of the community.
-
Kumar Harsh
Social Impact in Rural and Janjati region
Embracing Strength-Based Approach in Social Work: In the field of social work, individuals often enter with the intent of reforming and educating the community. Unfortunately, this approach can be outdated and have detrimental consequences. When communities lose confidence in their experiential wisdom, self-esteem dwindles, leading to reliance on external resources. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and promote community strengths. Collaboration and awareness are key in developing a flexible plan for positive change. Approaching social work with a rigid blueprint is unwise. Social workers must let go of the idea that they are there to impart wisdom or transform the community, embracing a strength-based perspective.
4
-
Staci Beto, LICSW
LICSW, MN BOSW and BBHT approved supervisor
It's important for each professional to examine their own bias. We all have are own unique experiences that have been colored by family, community, financial and exposure to or lack of exposure to a great variety of experiences. Rather than viewing opinions or hesitations as a hurtle taking it as an opportunity for curiosity and connection. We are all constantly learning. Embrace this as a joint effort.
1