Becoming a Social Worker: A Guide for Students

This book explores the journey of becoming a social worker. It is based upon the experiences of social work students themselves and therefore provides a unique 'inside-out' perspective. By showing that personal, professional and political elements are interwoven in students' journeys, the author demonstrates that integrating these elements is vital to critical reflection and relationship-based social work. Content includes social work theory, therapeutic and risk-management interventions, emotional and ethical aspects of practice, political and cultural contexts of practice, and issues around supervision and assessment. The book also : " includes introductions, real-life case study exercises, points for reflection, diagrams and tables, further reading and resources " equips new students to reflect upon their own journeying and to learn more effectively from modules and placements " provides case study material on all aspects of placements such as meeting Key Roles and value requirements " covers career pathways for final year students, including guidance on dealing with job interviews and occupational stress This is important reading across a range of modules and will be particularly valuable for new students and students on placement. Caroline Humphrey is Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Hull. PART ONE : BECOMING A SOCIAL WORKER IN TRAINING Social Work in the United Kingdom Students' Journeys Studying Social Work at University Practising under Supervision in the Community PART TWO: INTEGRATING KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND VALUES 'Why Do We Need Theory or Research?!' 'What Do They Mean by Practice Wisdom?' Mastering Key Roles on Initial Placements Mastering Key Roles on Final Placements Ethics and Emotions: Developing Socio-Emotional Intelligence Politics and Cultures: Developing Cross-Cultural Sensitivity PART THREE: BECOMING A NEWLY QUALIFIED PRACTITIONER Navigating Your Way Through Assessments Establishing a Career Pathway