RISK-LADEN WORKING LIVES OF CHILD PROTECTION SOCIAL WORKERS IN SOUTH AFRICA

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15270/55-4-763

Keywords:

child protection social workers risks, workplace adversity, negative outcomes South Africa

Abstract

This study reports on the findings of semi-structured interviews with ten social workersemployed by designated child protection organisations in Gauteng, South Africa to explore their lived experiences of workplace risks and subsequent negative outcomes. Thematic analysis of transcribed interviews yielded risk factors embedded in the socio-ecological model, namely intrapersonal (personality traits and the dichotomy of human vs. professionalism); interpersonal (unsupportive supervisors; lack of co-operation among professionals); institutional (challenges unique to child protection social work); community (unrealistic expectations from communities); societal / public policy (lack of funding and resources, political interference). A discussion follows and the way forward is deliberated

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Author Biographies

Elmien Truter, North West University

Optntia Research Focus Area

Ansie Fouche, North West University

Department of social Work

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Published

2019-10-11

How to Cite

Truter, E., & Fouche, A. (2019). RISK-LADEN WORKING LIVES OF CHILD PROTECTION SOCIAL WORKERS IN SOUTH AFRICA. Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, 55(4), 451. https://doi.org/10.15270/55-4-763

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Articles