An Explorative Study of the Place of the Ethics of Care and Reflective Practice in Social Work Education and Practice

Abstract

The moral development and identity of social work students have been shown to be enhanced by education in caring. Important aspects of this education are training in reflective practice and learning to have a perspective focused on professional loving care. In this study, we have explored how reflective processes can be implemented in both educational settings and working practice from an ethical point of view. Elaborating upon reflective practice from an ethical perspective focuses on reciprocity in relationships and relational capacity in institutional contexts. The study took the form of interviews with social work teachers and health care professionals. Interview and focus group data were analysed, three main topics were identified and statements were coded with relation to these topics. Use of both educators and practitioners in this study showed the importance of not neglecting the transition from education to practice. Responses also showed the value placed upon continuous education and development over the course of a health care professional's career.

Keywords:

• Professional Loving Care
• Reflective Practice
• Social Work
• Relationships
• Professional Development

Acknowledgements

Our thanks to the people who willingly participated in this research. We are grateful to Martin Guthrie for his constructive comments in proofreading this manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.