Social Values in Social Work: A Developmental Model

Abstract

The article suggests a five stage model which describes the development of social values in the socialization to social work and other human service professions. The five stages of development include the following: antecedent factors, anticipatory socialization, professional training period, performance in a professional organization and the crystalization of a professional worldview. The main thrust of the paper is the idea that the professional person develops himelf for a very long time before reaching professional maturity. This development represents a constant dialogue between the persons background factors needs and motives and the institutional and organizational contexts he encounters in his career. Along this developmental sequence, conflicts and incongruencies many times arise between the developing professional and his system of values and the organization and its demands. These conflicts will force the developing professional to come out with coping solutions that may involve leaving the field or the profession. Some practical as well as theoretical implications for further research and application are discussed at the end of the article.

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