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Bakalinsky's conundrum: should social workers practice in the world of work?
Abstract
This article comments on a critique of industrial (occupational) social work practice by Rosalie Bakalinsky, in which she concludes that social workers should not enter the labor and industrial world, based on three major dilemmas: the difficulty in asking social workers to be neutral participants in such settings; the problem of choosing a professional focus; and the intrinsic conflict between corporate and humanitarian values. The author argues that the field is broader in range and conceptualization, and that social workers face ethical dilemmas and compromises in traditional settings as well. For social workers in the workplace, it will be necessary to adhere closely to the Code of Ethics (1996) of the profession. A conceptual clarity regarding ethical issues, a professional readiness to discuss them, and a personal commitment to honor them in practice will serve as the best protection against the dangers that Bakalinsky correctly identifies are inimicable components of occupational practice. (This is one of 12 articles in a special issue on occupational social work.).
Journal
(2000)
vol23
no3/4
pages157-161
Categories
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Nonprofit Service Sectors
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Occupational Social Work
