Value Differences between Social Workers and Members of the Working and Middle Classes

Author: Hodge D.R.

Source: Social Work, Volume 48, Number 1, 1 January 2003 , pp. 107-119(13)

Publisher: National Association of Social Workers

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Abstract:

Although significant differences in values between social workers and clients are widely understood to affect the efficacy of service provision, no studies have sought to examine how the values affirmed by social workers may differ from those held by members of the working and middle classes. Therefore, this study examines the degree of value similarity between social workers and consumers. Based on "new-class" theory, two hypotheses are proposed. First, graduate social workers affirm value positions to the left of working- and middle-class clients. Second, bachelor's-level social workers affirm value positions in between those of graduate workers and clients. Both hypotheses were supported. The implications for the divergence in value frameworks for advocacy, practice, and education are discussed.

Keywords: CLASS-BASED IDEOLOGIES; NEW-CLASS THEORY; SERVICE PROVISION; VALUES; WORLDVIEWS

Document Type: Research article

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