Regulation of social work: Class 2

Question 1

Why is professional social work regulated?

what is it composed of? what do they do?

Answer 1

To protect the public that social workers serve
Laws enacted by provincial or territorial governments
Formalized standards, regulations and bylaws
Gives authority to professional body to manage members’ practice/behaviour

Question 2

What are formalized standards, regulations and bylaws set to protect against?

Answer 2

Unskilled, impaired, incapacitated or unethical practices

Question 3

How is self-regulation performed by social workers?

Answer 3

Through management authority

• Entry requirements
• Code of ethics enforcement
• Formal complaint process (including investigation and possible sanction)

Question 4

What is professionalism? what do laws and regulations include?

Answer 4

Knowledge and skills associated with specialized services
Includes
- professional development (yearly)
- unprofessional behaviour

Question 5

What is meant by “professionalism is not a coat?”

Answer 5

Private behaviour that derogates from high standards f conduct essential to the reputation of one’s profession cannot be condoned

Question 6

What is true about sw regulation across Canada?

Answer 6

all provinces/territories have sw regulatory legislation

• not all codes/legis are the same
• they aren’t static either

Question 7

What are some reasons for registration?

Answer 7

Professional recognition and influence 
- societal understanding 
- socio-political influence
Professional skills and standards 
Complaints and discipline 
-  empowers public/client 
- cautions re-behaviour

Question 8

What are some professional skills and standards that are ramified by registration

Answer 8

Codifies the boundary between worker and client (focus on client needs)
Aids in addressing workplace issues
Assistance with continuing education
Standards of practice may influence organizational process + culture
Reinforces social justice mandate and supports workers’ pursuit

Question 9

What are some suggestions for dealing with the disciplinary processes?

Answer 9

1. listen to your inner voice (seek supervision)
2. refer to cases outside of your expertise
3. keep accurate documentation
4. participate in regular supervision (not just for mistakes)
5. you are a professional - exercise good judgement

Question 10

What are some issues to consider concerning professional capacity?

Answer 10

Physical and mental health concerts (ex: substance abuse)
Relationship/relational - safeguarding the public
Safeguarding the profession
Anything that is affecting ability to meet professional standards

Question 11

What are some possible responses to incapacity?

Answer 11

Boards/tribunals (present arguments, determination re capacity)
Decision maker outside the hearing
- complaints director (examination, results, response)
- more private

Question 12

What are signs of burnout? compassion fatigue?

What is secondary trauma?

Answer 12

• cynicism, irritability, stress fatigue, feeling powerless, exhaustion
• all of the above + larger emotional impact
• Social workers shows same symptoms and responses as clients due to constant/sustained exposure to traumatic events

Question 13

What are some prevention techniques for burnout?

Answer 13

• maintain clear boundaries
• recognize limitations
• make and maintain supportive friendships/relationships
• professional development, self-identity
• participation in social justice activities
• mindfulness and reflective practice
• congruence between personal and professional selves
• vary the work and think positively