The Boundaries of Cooperation in Social Work in the Context of Substitute Family Care

Karel Rezac

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The aim of the paper is to analyse the experience of social workers and clients withthe crossing of boundaries of intervention during their mutual cooperation. THEORETICAL BASE: The issue of boundaries is perceived in three theoretic dimensions. The first dimension is defined as a boundary in the sense of social work as a discipline. The second dimension sees the boundary of intervention as particular methods of performing social work practice. The third dimension is the boundary of the relation between social worker and client. METHODS: The research was conducted through qualitative research strategy, using deductive qualitative analysis. OUTCOMES: As a result, the boundary is set and a typology of providing psychological support by social worker is established. On the basis of the research, the concept of the mask of the professional used as a tool to set boundaries of the worker’s inner world and the client’s world is also defined. Additionally, the research reveals the nature of professional relationships between worker and client. The thesis also deals with the issue of dual relationships. SOCIAL WORK IMPLICATIONS: The research provides knowledge for a better understanding of the theoretical definition of social work. Also, it presents findings with potential for application in social work practice.

Keywords
boundaries, professional relationship, dual relationships, social worker, client, intervention

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