As Arties probation officer, there are different social work values that have a bearing in this case. The first value that is relevant is that of human dignity and self-worth. This value states that “all human beings have intrinsic worth, irrespective of their past or present behavior, beliefs, lifestyle, race, or status in life” (Hepworth, Rooney, Larsen, 2002, p. 59). With Artie’s recent arrests, it could …show more content…
“Social workers primary goal is to help people in need and to address social problems” (NASW, 1996, p. 5). As Artie’s probation officer, and someone that Artie “is faithful in maintaining contact with” (Strom-Gottried, 1999, p.70), I have a pivotal and instrumental role in helping him overcome his recent difficulties. There is a powerful opportunity to be of service to Artie in keeping him accountable and guiding him to make better decisions about his role in life. Artie has assumed the role of taking care of his family once his father became incarcerated and as a young man could use any type of assistance I can provide as someone who cares. By maintaining a lifestyle grounded on core social work values, I can be a positive influence in Artie’s life while being his probation …show more content…
The theoretical propositions state that “disadvantaged and oppressed clients often mistrust helping professionals”, “client change occurs through a collaborative helping relationship”, and that “relationships are built on trust” (Poulin, 2010, p.46). This implies that as I meet with Artie for the first time, I must present myself as a professional social worker who is there to help him. I must maintain the core social work values in everything I do with Artie. It is important to see Artie’s strengths and not look down on him as a kid with a father in jail. I will listen to Artie, show genuine interest in him, and discover his goals in order to offer assistance to him in ways that will help him achieve his goals. As his probation officer, it will be important to assist him in goals that are in line with my work, which is to hold him accountable to stay out of trouble. I will apply the three practice principles described by Poulin 2010 which include focusing on the strengths of Artie, allowing Artie to be in charge of his action plan, and by continual evaluation of my work and Artie’s progress. By being there for Artie, listening to him, and being honest with him, I will attempt to build a trusting relationship in which I will have the ability to have a positive influence in his life. Listening