Importance Of Cultural Norms In Social Work

It is important to consider the cultural norms of the clients we work with them as simple gestures that would give the impression of listening, or respect could possibly be taken for other cultural meanings. In being considerate of the cultural norms it would be best practice to see how the client presents during the meeting to get a feel of cultural norms that may be different than those we are used to. Also being open with the client and asking if such cultural norm exist, would be a benefit to both client and social worker.

I feel that it is important to match the client in most cases in regards to their wording, and volume, however, I feel that this is contextual. I do feel that it is important to match their feelings to create a sense …show more content…
I feel that this not only allows me to better understand where they may be coming from, but also allows me to determine which pieces may, or may not be significant in the greater picture. Having this understanding allows the social worker to redirect the clients to the more significant pieces, but can also be used to reflect on what was said, and tie loose thoughts together. Tracking the client’s direction as they share can also provide valuable insight on other significant areas as time …show more content…
These negative repercussions apply to both the social worker and the client. Solving the clients issues for them can not only be seen as going against the NASW ethics (self-determination), but directly enables that the client. In solving the issues for the client they will not gain the take away that comes with solving a problem, which adds to personal development and growth. For the social worker the client may now seek them out to solve other problems, or lack accountability for their actions as they feel that the social worker will solve them. Though these are a few possible repercussions, there are numerous issues that could stem from directly solving the problems of