Journal:Tiltai
Volume 73, Issue 1 (2016), pp. 83–96
Abstract
Positive orientation has become widely recognized in many scientific fields during the last decade. Possible nature of positive orientation in social work could be derived from positive psychology. However this topic is just starting to be discussed and researched in Lithuania and other European countries. In this article the authors represent complementary social work approaches that are proved as effective in a contradiction to most applied and dominant in practice nowadays problem-oriented model of social work. Therefore, the aim of the article is to overview social work practices as a ground for starting modeling Positive Social Work (PSW). Literature analysis was employed to ground different approaches of social work and set the basis for possible Positive Social Work beginning.
Journal:Tiltai
Volume 78, Issue 3 (2017), pp. 13–28
Abstract
The article analyses theoretical development of positive social work approach via highlighted strengths of client. The professional social work compounds analysis of problematic relationships of individuals, families and communities, seek for social change and orientation towards maintenance of quality of life. Strength – oriented model is essential for its application towards vulnerable groups in pluralistic context of social work methods. It is discussed in the article that despite critics towards strength-oriented model, positive approach is fundamental basis for effective communication. Negative expectations, questions, and problem-based attitude impacts client’s attitude towards self, the same it changes attitude of social network towards the client, and it affects behavior and relationships. In such a case the relationships of social worker and client to be not mentioned by distance, control and different possibilities is hardly expected. This understanding gap will be much more noticeable if social worker empowers his knowledge to name and solve the problem. Therefore, social worker influences passiveness of client. The article discusses that strength-oriented social work model does not mean fulfilling all the dreams and wishes of client as well as any willingness of client is best for this client. The most essential aspects discussed in the article is seen via close collaboration of social worker and client as well as tight both-sided interaction. Positive social work is approached towards analysis of concrete choices of client instead of accentuation of disorder.