There are many characteristics and behaviours that interconnect to create the overall makeup of a professional. If one characteristic or behaviour is absent, the professional is less effective in their field. If enough qualities are absent, the professionalism of the individual will be lost altogether. There are many key elements of being a professional that can be discussed. All of them are tremendously important, however the one that will be discussed in the following will be commitment.
The values of a disability support worker will influence their attitude and behaviour either positively or negatively, and therefore must be continually monitored. If not kept in check negative attitudes and behaviours will affect the quality of the support given.
I will also talk about my own personal traits and value system as they relate to the human services field. I will identify any changes that I anticipate happening in my value system as I gain more experience in this professional role. (Saskatchewan Polytechnic, 2016)
Characteristics and behaviours of a professional
There are ten main characteristics and behaviours that a professional should strive for: commitment, responsibility and accountability, appropriate attire, communication and collaboration, altruism and advocacy, honesty and …show more content…
Commitment is primarily focused on the individual being cared for, however the organization that supports the individual, fellow co-workers, and the disability community also needs to be a focal point (Saskatchewan Polytechnic, 2016). If commitment is the cornerstone of the disability support worker’s professionalism, a majority of the other characteristics will then fall in place. For example, if the disability support worker is truly committed, responsibility, altruism, advocacy, and respect will all be natural attributes in which the worker