Approaches of Social Workers to Strategic Dilemmas in Light of the Global Definition of Social Work

Mirka Nečasová

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: The text provides answers to the question of how the approach of social workers to the strategic dilemmas corresponds with the requirements and values expressed in the Global Definition of Social Work.
THEORETICAL BASE: In postmodern society, the environment in which social workers operate is accompanied by various changes and uncertainties. The authors point out the contradictory nature of social work and the new social risks and impacts of neoliberalism. If social workers are to stand up to these conditions, they need to have a clear picture of the social work profession and their role, and be able to respond to new trends and demands. These requirements are expressed in the basic documents of the profession, especially in the definition of social work. In the research, I focus on trends expressed in the current Global definition of social work and on the attitudes of research participants to strategic dilemmas, which by their nature encourage a response within the values set out in the Global definition.
METHODS: The topic was examined through a quantitative and qualitative research strategy aimed at social workers' access to strategic dilemmas.
OUTCOMES: The results show that the research participants, with a few exceptions, identify themselves with the previous definition of social work and do not reflect the trends expressed in the current definition. SOCIAL
WORK IMPLICATIONS: Based on the findings, the author makes recommendations for teaching future social workers.

Keywords:
social work definition, strategic dilemmas, values, social work