Stages of the Social Casework Process
The social casework process requires a systemic and methodical approach for the productive assessment of core factors and the development of an effective solution. For this purpose, a standardized framework involving five core stages is typically applied. These include Engagement, Exploration, Assessment, Formulation of Goals, and Evaluation and Termination. By following the set standard, one is expected to obtain a coherent and measurable result.
An example of an Engagement stage is the identification of a specific problem faced by a client, which would be determining the reason for having increased anxiety levels. At the specified stage, a caseworker may experience challenges with the client’s low levels of openness and trust. In turn, the second stage of exploration involves taking an in-depth look at the problem faced by the client. Namely, suggests that the extent of the problem is identified.
The third state, Intervention, suggests introducing a treatment that is expected to help eliminate the identified issues. For example, in case of anxiety, a combination of medications for reducing the extent of stress and appropriate CBT therapy are advised (Singh, 2020). During an intervention, a social worker is likely to have to address several impediments linked to the client’s lack of perspective on the issue. For this purpose, patient education should be applied to introduce the target audience to appropriate strategies (Singh, 2020). In turn, the fourth stage of Termination suggests that the intervention comes to an end. In the Termination phase, difficulties linked to encouraging the client’s independence may emerge, which is why active patient education throughout the process is required.
Finally, the fifth stage of Evaluation means assessing the progress made in the course of the intervention. For example, in case of anxiety, the patient’s response to anxiety-causing factors will need to be reassessed to confirm the successful completion of the intervention. At the Evaluation phase, issues with defining the evidence confirming the progress may emerge.
Three Objectives of Social Casework and Relevant Examples for Two of Them
Remarkably, the number of objectives singled out for social casework varies to an extent depending on the theoretical framework and the context in which a caseworker has to deploy it. However, typically, three core objectives are identified when implementing casework-related practices. Namely, a caseworker must identify and understand the problem faced by a client, enhance the ego power of the client, and educate them to ensure proper adherence to the provided therapy.
To implement the first stage, specifically the identification of core issues faced by the target individual, a caseworker should deploy active listening. The specified technique allows for eliciting the maximum information and increases the extent of the client’s trust in the expert. Thus, a proper rapport is established, and opportunities for further cooperation are built (Likeing & Sunday, 2020). In turn, the third stage of offering the client the required educational options could be implemented by exposing the individual in question to official sites related to the subject matter and offering educational materials to visitors. Furthermore, a caseworker should deploy visual aids in providing crucial information to the client, which may include not only images but also interactive stools. Thus, the process of billing awareness will remain dynamic.
Why Are the Principles of Social Casework Important?
Adhering to the principal standards of casework is essential since it allows for managing clients’ needs directly. Developed specifically for handling issues as promptly and thoroughly as possible, the model in question produces the best effect within the shortest amount of time (Hamid & Saber, 2020). Particularly, the focus on communication with clients and their education represents a major advantage. Therefore, principles of social case work must be followed thoroughly.
Ensuring that the social casework process runs smoothly requires following the established standards for social casework. Thus, positive outcomes with minimal side effects can be expected. Furthermore, patients will receive enough support in the development of the relevant knowledge concerning their conditions, which will support them in the management of their relevant concerns.
References
Likeing, M., & Sunday, A. S. (2020). Psychotherapy and effective counseling in social casework practice. International Journal for Psychotherapy in Africa, 2(1).
Hamid, A., & Saber, A. (2020). The effectiveness of a behavioral therapy program in social casework in the development of adaptive behavior among autistic children. Egyptian Journal of Social Work, 9(1), 147-168.
Singh, R. R. (2020). Social work practice: Emerging trends and challenges. National Journal of Professional Social Work, 3-8.