An Exploratory Study of Email Use by Direct Service Social Workers

ABSTRACT

A survey of 384 Central Pennsylvania social workers explored email use, attitudes, and difficulties. Results found that approximately three-fourths of social workers use email at work, primarily with co-workers. Almost one-third has used email with clients, although the majority of social workers believe that email for therapeutic purposes is both unethical and ineffective. A small minority of social workers has experienced difficulties that include violating a client's confidentiality through email, sending email to the wrong person, and receiving harassing email. There is considerable variation in agency policy and training related to email. Implications for agency policy and continuing education are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Email
• ethics
• information technology
• social work practice