PRACTICE FRAMEWORK
PART ONE of the Practice Framework was submitted on April 16, 2007 as an assignment for my BSW program. As I was developing this portfolio, I came across the document. My practice framework from 6 years ago demonstrates that although aspects of the framework are timeless and continues to resonate with me, it also shows the growth I have experienced since that time. PART TWO was developed during my MSW and is more focused on leadership. It shows who I am as a social worker today.
PART ONE
Introduction
This practice framework is intended to present my unique perspective of what is important in the field of social work. Although it represents what I see as the most important features of social work, it is not exhaustive. There are so many aspects that impact one’s practice, and it would be difficult incorporate them all into an essay. Instead, it is a synopsis of what my
social work portfolio might look like.
Prior Knowledge
There are many sources of knowledge can draw from. Social work history is a source of knowledge for present day workers. In this sense, prior knowledge refers to what has been learned from the history of social work, and how it influences the field today. The second part of prior knowledge involves personal history; how has my life story impacted me? Which aspects from my life story overlap from the personal realm into the professional?
One aspect in the history of social work that has had an impact on my practice is the classification of deserving and undeserving poor. This type of classification was common in the nineteenth century when public assistance was guided largely by England’s system of poor relief (Hick, 2002). Hick (2002) explains that the deserving poor were “seen as being of good moral character and only temporarily out of luck due to no fault of their own. The deserving poor did not ask directly for help, and were clean and tidy” (p.41). The undeserving poor, on the other hand, were perceived as lazy and/ or morally degenerate (Hick, 2002). Although time has told us that social work is much more complex than people simply deserving or not deserving help, it is easy to subconsciously place these labels on our clients. An awareness of this time in history has helped me to recognize when my thoughts are wondering into the deserving and undeserving zone. I can then shift my thoughts to more constructive ideas.
Personal biases and values often emerge from one’s personal history. Ever since I was young, I have been passionate about helping others. This can be attributed to my upbringing. My mother and father have always encouraged me to help others who are in need by using the gifts that have been given to me. My mother has a passion for teaching and has used this gift to share knowledge with other people. My father is a skilled carpenter. He does woodworking for his church community. They have both been influential in my quest to become a social worker. I hope that the value I place on being caring and compassionate will shine in my professional life.
Relevant social work theory and practice models
Eclecticism
This past semester, I have come across a theory that is both practical
and insightful. It is called “Eclecticism”. Young (1992) defines eclecticism as “a theory that selects what is best from among many
theoretical stances” (p.6). Wikipedia (2006) offers a more thorough definition: Eclecticism is a conceptual approach that does not hold rigidly to a single paradigm or set of assumptions, but instead draws upon multiple theories, styles, or ideas to gain complimentary insights into a subject, or applies different theories in particular cases. In other words, eclecticism allows one to create a practice framework that is flexible. This allows a worker to avoid rigidity when it comes to satisfying the needs of a client. According to Young (1992), there are several studies that show eclecticism to be the most common theoretical orientation of practitioners. In my opinion, it is virtually impossible to avoid practicing in an eclectic manner. Even if a worker attempts to work from a single theoretical standpoint, there will always be
fragments of other theories incorporated into practice.
As mentioned, this approach is beneficial because it allows for flexibility. It uses the best parts of many theories, and helps to avoid narrow- mindedness. As Young (1992) explains, what is best means what works. We can reject that which has not worked in the past. It allows us to discard the aspects of a theory that does not fit into our practice approach.
A sceptic of this approach may say that eclectic practitioners lack focus in their intervention methods. Or, as Young (1992) explains, an eclectic counsellor may take the position that no theories are true or useful. It may be viewed as an undisciplined and confusing way to practice (Young, 1992). An eclectic practitioner may have difficulty justifying a particular intervention method, as they have no one theory to represent it. Perhaps this is the reason that social workers often lack respect in the professional realm; they do not strongly adhere to a single theory. While doctors and nurses have a “medical model” with which they base their practice, social workers use many ideas and
viewpoints.
I support eclecticism because it enables client- focused practice. I am able to select a theory that serves the best interests of a particular client. It allows me to switch modes if something isn’t working. At the same time, I must be certain that my approach is intentional and
that I have not lost focus with a client.
Strength Based Practice
Although strength based practice was originally used with people who have a severe mental illness, the approach has been extended to working with other populations, particularly elderly people, youth, people with addictions and community based practice (Saleeby, 1996).
The approach is well known in the field of social work and many embrace this method of practice. It emerged out of the awareness that many of the helping professions focus on pathology, deficits, problems, abnormality, victimization and disorder (Saleeby, 1996). A prime example of this is the DSM IV that is filled with various disorders. In strength based practice the terminology shifts from looking at someone’s deficits to words that have the power to elevate people (Saleeby, 1996). The language used includes empowerment& resilience
(Saleeby, 1996, Heinonen & Spearman, 2001). According to the strengths approach, a social worker must gain an understanding of their clients in light of their capacities (Saleeby, 1996). Someone coming from this perspective would focus on the promotion of personal growth and quality of life, and engage clients to solve their problems (Heinonen & Spearman, 2001).
This approach is beneficial because it believes in a client’s ability to make positive changes in their lives. It acknowledges a client’s capacities and supports. It enables them to draw from pre-existing resources, thus enabling clients to be independent. In today’s economy, it is common for social workers to feel as though their hands are tied in terms of being able to provide resources for their clients. In strength based practice, the resources are already there; it is simply a matter of drawing them out and getting a client to recognize them.
I particularly enjoy this approach because it is not solely based on theory. It provides practical intervention methods. One specific
example is constructionism, or using stories and narratives to create a perception of resiliency within our clients (Saleeby, 1996). It also helps clients to see strength within their cultural group. This story telling method would be particularly useful with immigrant populations.
There are several common objections to strength based practice. Taylor (2006) discusses how this approach may put mentally ill clients in danger by “discouraging standardized diagnostic assessments, by suggesting that mental illness is not a neurobiological disease, and by relying too much on strengths- oriented interventions to promote well being”. In other words, a strength based practitioner may be overly rigid in terms of narrowing their focus in assessment, resulting in inappropriate interventions. Saleeby (1996) describes this as ignoring reality. Saleeby (1996) describes “Pollyannaism” as ignoring “how manipulative and dangerous or destructive certain clients and client groups can be” (p.302). My argument to this is that it is a social worker’s responsibility to believe that all clients have the ability to make change, even those clients that are most frustrating to us.
Although it is difficult to admit, I find it challenging at times to shift from focusing on problems and deficits to having a positive outlook. On the other hand, I have had rewarding experiences when using a strength based approach. When using a strength based approach I have seen clients make changes in the way that they see themselves and the situations they are in.
Ecosystems approach
It is common to operate from a systems perspective or employ an ecological model when addressing social problems (Mullaly, 2002).
Social workers often combine these two ideas into an approach called “Ecosystems”. According to Mullaly (2002), both the systems theory and the ecological approach do not attempt to change the fundamental and oppressive nature of the system but instead deals with the individual and environmental influences within the system. Although looking at the system as a whole is important, at times it can be more realistic to look at how an individual can function better within the system as it exists.
As Heinonen and Spearman (2001) explain, ecosystems is a person-in-the-environment approach. It looks at whether the person fits well in its environment and attempts to identify problems within that fit. One of the issues this perspective looks at is whether or not a person functions within an open system or a closed system. An open system is considered to be a healthy one, where change and growth
is embraced. In an open system, resources are exchanged among different systems. The approach also looks at stress, or a person’s response to internal or environmental stimulus. A person who is healthy has coping measures or defence mechanisms they use to react to stressful situations.
This approach is advantageous to social workers because it helps front line workers to take on a holistic perspective when dealing with families. It helps workers to look beyond the problem at hand. It requires one to take a step back and look at the whole picture. It prevents pathologizing a problem, and acknowledges the effects of a person’s environment on the wellbeing of that individual.
As mentioned earlier, Mullaly (2002) explains that this approach is not used to change the system, but to help a person function better within it. In this sense, ecosystems approach may dissuade social workers from addressing systemic issues at the macro level. In other words, instead of addressing the oppressive nature of our society, we would be inclined to help an individual live better within the oppression.
I had an experience this past semester where I found myself using terminology from an ecosystems approach. In my practicum at Child and Family Services, I went with a colleague on an investigation. After the investigation, I found myself discussing how the family
functioned as a closed system. They did not have access to all available resources due to the closed nature of the family. I found that
the family was struggling to make positive change and growth because they had closed themselves off from the community. Although the original concern was focused on the parents, the intervention was focused on the bigger picture, and how we could help this family open their doors.
Skills & Limitations
As mentioned previously, I have been taught that it is important to use one’s gifts in a way that helps others. I have developed an identity for myself that includes being a compassionate and caring person. Although I have always been shy and reserved, there has always been a
passion inside of me to serve those in need.
My frontline experience, including a current practicum at Child and Family Services, employment at Edmonton Women’s Shelter and my social work education has enabled me to have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to establish and maintain working relationships with clients. I have heard and experienced that the client- professional relationship is the most effective tool in social work. I have embraced any opportunity I have had to build relationships with clients. I care deeply about the work that I do and have good working relationships with my clients.
I bring to the table a unique set of skills that are transferable to many different social work jobs. I speak fluently in both French and English and also speak some Spanish. I have an interest in working with children and youth who face multiple barriers and often lack the support they need to make a healthy transition into adulthood. My experience working at WIN House has enabled me to gain extensive knowledge in the area of family violence. As a crisis worker, I am able to manage crisis situations effectively.
Through the Index of Learning Styles (Felder & Solomon, 2000), I have learned that I am a reflective, intuitive, and verbal learner. According to Felder (1993) a reflective person tends to ponder the meanings and implications of information. I believe this to be an asset in social work. An intuitive learner perceives information through cognitive experience, as opposed to perceiving through the senses. Knowing this about myself can be helpful in being a successful learner. It gives me an opportunity to broaden my abilities by practicing how to learn in ways in which I am not proficient.
Current practicum and Readiness for the field
There are several personal qualities that I have been able to recognize in myself through my current practicum at Child and Family Services. Although I am skilled in these areas, there is still room for ongoing development. The first area where I have really shone is in time management. I am skilled at making priorities and dealing with urgent matters first. If you were to visit my office today, you would see a number of “To Do” lists hidden away in different corners of my desk. I will need continual growth in this area as I know that my workload will expand when I am an employee. The second area is in stress management. When I worked as a waitress, I learned that loosing my cool only made matters worse during busy moments. I have been surprised at how well I have transferred these skills into
the field of social work. I find that I am able to remain calm when there is chaos all around me. I have also found that I am able to maintain a good balance between working independently and being part of a team. I ask for help when it is needed but first try to figure things out on my own. I am always willing to help my co-workers when they are swamped.
There are also areas that I find limit my ability to be effective. I struggle to be assertive at times. I believe this is because as a student, I feel less entitled to assert myself. Although I have made improvement in this area, I need to be aware that assertiveness is an area that I continue to struggle with. I also find it challenging at times to remain positive in a negative environment. I have found that “office politics” can get in the way of being effective, and it can be challenging to maintain one’s ethical standards when there is pressure to partake in the conflicts that occur among coworkers. I have learned that effective communication is not only necessary between worker and clients, but among coworkers as well.
Conclusion
As mentioned, this practice framework does not cover all of the theories and topics that are relevant in social work. Instead, it is meant to provide insight with regards to what I bring with me as I enter the workforce. This practice framework is not static. As I gain experience and wisdom, my perspective will change. My life story will expand, and what I view as important will change. As a professional, I can anticipate ongoing growth and development in my lifelong learning. The journey has only just begun.
PART TWO
Leadership is not only a role that one may take on, but a set of skills that can assist in approaching life’s many challenges, both personal and professional. The word collage above (Leadership Vancouver, 2012) embodies my practice framework in terms of important characteristics of a leader. As it relates to human services, the competencies that may be present in a transformational leader are similar to those competencies that are necessary in the field of social work. Approaching day to day responsibilities as a social worker and as an aspiring leader with a sense of servitude has helped to keep me grounded. Serving others is a means to achieve social justice by carrying the belief that all deserve equal opportunities. This attitude is transferrable to any situation or circumstance in life, whether it be leading others, parenting, or working directly with clients.
My experiences in the MSW program and practicum have enabled me to get a better sense of my strengths and areas for development as it relates to my growth as a leader in the community, at home and in the workplace. In order to strengthen my practice framework, I need to learn how to be more creative in my problem solving abilities and to embrace conflict in a healthy manner. I would like to become more of an "integrative thinker" (Martin, 2007) which would assist me in both finding creative solutions and to accept conflict.
Following is an excerpt from a paper I did early on in the Masters program and remains relevant to my practice framework:
"Inspiring those with whom we work with is important in social work, just as transformational leaders must inspire their followers to commit to a shared vision (Bass & Riggio, 2006). A skilled social worker engages in active listening, just as a leader recognizes that “innovation comes more from listening than from telling” (Kouzes & Posner, 2007, p.19). Social workers are lifelong learners, just as leaders should be.
Kouzes & Posner (2007) state that leadership is a relationship, just as relationships are a key factor in social work. Collaboration is a term that is frequently used in social work, just as it can be found in the literature on leadership (Kouzes & Posner, 2007). Self- awareness provides insight to both the social worker and the leader. Social workers empower their clients just as leaders empower their followers (Bass& Riggio, 2006). Social workers need to manage their level of stress and leaders can help their followers manage stress (Bass & Riggio, 2006)." (Hennie, 2011). I continue to refer back to this excerpt as I build my practice framework, which is a living article that continues to grow and flourish.
PART ONE of the Practice Framework was submitted on April 16, 2007 as an assignment for my BSW program. As I was developing this portfolio, I came across the document. My practice framework from 6 years ago demonstrates that although aspects of the framework are timeless and continues to resonate with me, it also shows the growth I have experienced since that time. PART TWO was developed during my MSW and is more focused on leadership. It shows who I am as a social worker today.
PART ONE
Introduction
This practice framework is intended to present my unique perspective of what is important in the field of social work. Although it represents what I see as the most important features of social work, it is not exhaustive. There are so many aspects that impact one’s practice, and it would be difficult incorporate them all into an essay. Instead, it is a synopsis of what my
social work portfolio might look like.
Prior Knowledge
There are many sources of knowledge can draw from. Social work history is a source of knowledge for present day workers. In this sense, prior knowledge refers to what has been learned from the history of social work, and how it influences the field today. The second part of prior knowledge involves personal history; how has my life story impacted me? Which aspects from my life story overlap from the personal realm into the professional?
One aspect in the history of social work that has had an impact on my practice is the classification of deserving and undeserving poor. This type of classification was common in the nineteenth century when public assistance was guided largely by England’s system of poor relief (Hick, 2002). Hick (2002) explains that the deserving poor were “seen as being of good moral character and only temporarily out of luck due to no fault of their own. The deserving poor did not ask directly for help, and were clean and tidy” (p.41). The undeserving poor, on the other hand, were perceived as lazy and/ or morally degenerate (Hick, 2002). Although time has told us that social work is much more complex than people simply deserving or not deserving help, it is easy to subconsciously place these labels on our clients. An awareness of this time in history has helped me to recognize when my thoughts are wondering into the deserving and undeserving zone. I can then shift my thoughts to more constructive ideas.
Personal biases and values often emerge from one’s personal history. Ever since I was young, I have been passionate about helping others. This can be attributed to my upbringing. My mother and father have always encouraged me to help others who are in need by using the gifts that have been given to me. My mother has a passion for teaching and has used this gift to share knowledge with other people. My father is a skilled carpenter. He does woodworking for his church community. They have both been influential in my quest to become a social worker. I hope that the value I place on being caring and compassionate will shine in my professional life.
Relevant social work theory and practice models
Eclecticism
This past semester, I have come across a theory that is both practical
and insightful. It is called “Eclecticism”. Young (1992) defines eclecticism as “a theory that selects what is best from among many
theoretical stances” (p.6). Wikipedia (2006) offers a more thorough definition: Eclecticism is a conceptual approach that does not hold rigidly to a single paradigm or set of assumptions, but instead draws upon multiple theories, styles, or ideas to gain complimentary insights into a subject, or applies different theories in particular cases. In other words, eclecticism allows one to create a practice framework that is flexible. This allows a worker to avoid rigidity when it comes to satisfying the needs of a client. According to Young (1992), there are several studies that show eclecticism to be the most common theoretical orientation of practitioners. In my opinion, it is virtually impossible to avoid practicing in an eclectic manner. Even if a worker attempts to work from a single theoretical standpoint, there will always be
fragments of other theories incorporated into practice.
As mentioned, this approach is beneficial because it allows for flexibility. It uses the best parts of many theories, and helps to avoid narrow- mindedness. As Young (1992) explains, what is best means what works. We can reject that which has not worked in the past. It allows us to discard the aspects of a theory that does not fit into our practice approach.
A sceptic of this approach may say that eclectic practitioners lack focus in their intervention methods. Or, as Young (1992) explains, an eclectic counsellor may take the position that no theories are true or useful. It may be viewed as an undisciplined and confusing way to practice (Young, 1992). An eclectic practitioner may have difficulty justifying a particular intervention method, as they have no one theory to represent it. Perhaps this is the reason that social workers often lack respect in the professional realm; they do not strongly adhere to a single theory. While doctors and nurses have a “medical model” with which they base their practice, social workers use many ideas and
viewpoints.
I support eclecticism because it enables client- focused practice. I am able to select a theory that serves the best interests of a particular client. It allows me to switch modes if something isn’t working. At the same time, I must be certain that my approach is intentional and
that I have not lost focus with a client.
Strength Based Practice
Although strength based practice was originally used with people who have a severe mental illness, the approach has been extended to working with other populations, particularly elderly people, youth, people with addictions and community based practice (Saleeby, 1996).
The approach is well known in the field of social work and many embrace this method of practice. It emerged out of the awareness that many of the helping professions focus on pathology, deficits, problems, abnormality, victimization and disorder (Saleeby, 1996). A prime example of this is the DSM IV that is filled with various disorders. In strength based practice the terminology shifts from looking at someone’s deficits to words that have the power to elevate people (Saleeby, 1996). The language used includes empowerment& resilience
(Saleeby, 1996, Heinonen & Spearman, 2001). According to the strengths approach, a social worker must gain an understanding of their clients in light of their capacities (Saleeby, 1996). Someone coming from this perspective would focus on the promotion of personal growth and quality of life, and engage clients to solve their problems (Heinonen & Spearman, 2001).
This approach is beneficial because it believes in a client’s ability to make positive changes in their lives. It acknowledges a client’s capacities and supports. It enables them to draw from pre-existing resources, thus enabling clients to be independent. In today’s economy, it is common for social workers to feel as though their hands are tied in terms of being able to provide resources for their clients. In strength based practice, the resources are already there; it is simply a matter of drawing them out and getting a client to recognize them.
I particularly enjoy this approach because it is not solely based on theory. It provides practical intervention methods. One specific
example is constructionism, or using stories and narratives to create a perception of resiliency within our clients (Saleeby, 1996). It also helps clients to see strength within their cultural group. This story telling method would be particularly useful with immigrant populations.
There are several common objections to strength based practice. Taylor (2006) discusses how this approach may put mentally ill clients in danger by “discouraging standardized diagnostic assessments, by suggesting that mental illness is not a neurobiological disease, and by relying too much on strengths- oriented interventions to promote well being”. In other words, a strength based practitioner may be overly rigid in terms of narrowing their focus in assessment, resulting in inappropriate interventions. Saleeby (1996) describes this as ignoring reality. Saleeby (1996) describes “Pollyannaism” as ignoring “how manipulative and dangerous or destructive certain clients and client groups can be” (p.302). My argument to this is that it is a social worker’s responsibility to believe that all clients have the ability to make change, even those clients that are most frustrating to us.
Although it is difficult to admit, I find it challenging at times to shift from focusing on problems and deficits to having a positive outlook. On the other hand, I have had rewarding experiences when using a strength based approach. When using a strength based approach I have seen clients make changes in the way that they see themselves and the situations they are in.
Ecosystems approach
It is common to operate from a systems perspective or employ an ecological model when addressing social problems (Mullaly, 2002).
Social workers often combine these two ideas into an approach called “Ecosystems”. According to Mullaly (2002), both the systems theory and the ecological approach do not attempt to change the fundamental and oppressive nature of the system but instead deals with the individual and environmental influences within the system. Although looking at the system as a whole is important, at times it can be more realistic to look at how an individual can function better within the system as it exists.
As Heinonen and Spearman (2001) explain, ecosystems is a person-in-the-environment approach. It looks at whether the person fits well in its environment and attempts to identify problems within that fit. One of the issues this perspective looks at is whether or not a person functions within an open system or a closed system. An open system is considered to be a healthy one, where change and growth
is embraced. In an open system, resources are exchanged among different systems. The approach also looks at stress, or a person’s response to internal or environmental stimulus. A person who is healthy has coping measures or defence mechanisms they use to react to stressful situations.
This approach is advantageous to social workers because it helps front line workers to take on a holistic perspective when dealing with families. It helps workers to look beyond the problem at hand. It requires one to take a step back and look at the whole picture. It prevents pathologizing a problem, and acknowledges the effects of a person’s environment on the wellbeing of that individual.
As mentioned earlier, Mullaly (2002) explains that this approach is not used to change the system, but to help a person function better within it. In this sense, ecosystems approach may dissuade social workers from addressing systemic issues at the macro level. In other words, instead of addressing the oppressive nature of our society, we would be inclined to help an individual live better within the oppression.
I had an experience this past semester where I found myself using terminology from an ecosystems approach. In my practicum at Child and Family Services, I went with a colleague on an investigation. After the investigation, I found myself discussing how the family
functioned as a closed system. They did not have access to all available resources due to the closed nature of the family. I found that
the family was struggling to make positive change and growth because they had closed themselves off from the community. Although the original concern was focused on the parents, the intervention was focused on the bigger picture, and how we could help this family open their doors.
Skills & Limitations
As mentioned previously, I have been taught that it is important to use one’s gifts in a way that helps others. I have developed an identity for myself that includes being a compassionate and caring person. Although I have always been shy and reserved, there has always been a
passion inside of me to serve those in need.
My frontline experience, including a current practicum at Child and Family Services, employment at Edmonton Women’s Shelter and my social work education has enabled me to have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to establish and maintain working relationships with clients. I have heard and experienced that the client- professional relationship is the most effective tool in social work. I have embraced any opportunity I have had to build relationships with clients. I care deeply about the work that I do and have good working relationships with my clients.
I bring to the table a unique set of skills that are transferable to many different social work jobs. I speak fluently in both French and English and also speak some Spanish. I have an interest in working with children and youth who face multiple barriers and often lack the support they need to make a healthy transition into adulthood. My experience working at WIN House has enabled me to gain extensive knowledge in the area of family violence. As a crisis worker, I am able to manage crisis situations effectively.
Through the Index of Learning Styles (Felder & Solomon, 2000), I have learned that I am a reflective, intuitive, and verbal learner. According to Felder (1993) a reflective person tends to ponder the meanings and implications of information. I believe this to be an asset in social work. An intuitive learner perceives information through cognitive experience, as opposed to perceiving through the senses. Knowing this about myself can be helpful in being a successful learner. It gives me an opportunity to broaden my abilities by practicing how to learn in ways in which I am not proficient.
Current practicum and Readiness for the field
There are several personal qualities that I have been able to recognize in myself through my current practicum at Child and Family Services. Although I am skilled in these areas, there is still room for ongoing development. The first area where I have really shone is in time management. I am skilled at making priorities and dealing with urgent matters first. If you were to visit my office today, you would see a number of “To Do” lists hidden away in different corners of my desk. I will need continual growth in this area as I know that my workload will expand when I am an employee. The second area is in stress management. When I worked as a waitress, I learned that loosing my cool only made matters worse during busy moments. I have been surprised at how well I have transferred these skills into
the field of social work. I find that I am able to remain calm when there is chaos all around me. I have also found that I am able to maintain a good balance between working independently and being part of a team. I ask for help when it is needed but first try to figure things out on my own. I am always willing to help my co-workers when they are swamped.
There are also areas that I find limit my ability to be effective. I struggle to be assertive at times. I believe this is because as a student, I feel less entitled to assert myself. Although I have made improvement in this area, I need to be aware that assertiveness is an area that I continue to struggle with. I also find it challenging at times to remain positive in a negative environment. I have found that “office politics” can get in the way of being effective, and it can be challenging to maintain one’s ethical standards when there is pressure to partake in the conflicts that occur among coworkers. I have learned that effective communication is not only necessary between worker and clients, but among coworkers as well.
Conclusion
As mentioned, this practice framework does not cover all of the theories and topics that are relevant in social work. Instead, it is meant to provide insight with regards to what I bring with me as I enter the workforce. This practice framework is not static. As I gain experience and wisdom, my perspective will change. My life story will expand, and what I view as important will change. As a professional, I can anticipate ongoing growth and development in my lifelong learning. The journey has only just begun.
PART TWO
Leadership is not only a role that one may take on, but a set of skills that can assist in approaching life’s many challenges, both personal and professional. The word collage above (Leadership Vancouver, 2012) embodies my practice framework in terms of important characteristics of a leader. As it relates to human services, the competencies that may be present in a transformational leader are similar to those competencies that are necessary in the field of social work. Approaching day to day responsibilities as a social worker and as an aspiring leader with a sense of servitude has helped to keep me grounded. Serving others is a means to achieve social justice by carrying the belief that all deserve equal opportunities. This attitude is transferrable to any situation or circumstance in life, whether it be leading others, parenting, or working directly with clients.
My experiences in the MSW program and practicum have enabled me to get a better sense of my strengths and areas for development as it relates to my growth as a leader in the community, at home and in the workplace. In order to strengthen my practice framework, I need to learn how to be more creative in my problem solving abilities and to embrace conflict in a healthy manner. I would like to become more of an "integrative thinker" (Martin, 2007) which would assist me in both finding creative solutions and to accept conflict.
Following is an excerpt from a paper I did early on in the Masters program and remains relevant to my practice framework:
"Inspiring those with whom we work with is important in social work, just as transformational leaders must inspire their followers to commit to a shared vision (Bass & Riggio, 2006). A skilled social worker engages in active listening, just as a leader recognizes that “innovation comes more from listening than from telling” (Kouzes & Posner, 2007, p.19). Social workers are lifelong learners, just as leaders should be.
Kouzes & Posner (2007) state that leadership is a relationship, just as relationships are a key factor in social work. Collaboration is a term that is frequently used in social work, just as it can be found in the literature on leadership (Kouzes & Posner, 2007). Self- awareness provides insight to both the social worker and the leader. Social workers empower their clients just as leaders empower their followers (Bass& Riggio, 2006). Social workers need to manage their level of stress and leaders can help their followers manage stress (Bass & Riggio, 2006)." (Hennie, 2011). I continue to refer back to this excerpt as I build my practice framework, which is a living article that continues to grow and flourish.