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Baker M, Berens KA, Giesbrecht CJ, Bruer KC, Evans AD, Price HL, Williams S. "Locked in a Jail Cell in Your Own Home": Child Maltreatment Investigators' Perspectives of COVID-19's Effects on Maltreated Children. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2024; 29:415-429. [PMID: 38086535 PMCID: PMC11323426 DOI: 10.1177/10775595231221798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Children were at a greater risk of adverse experiences, including maltreatment, during the COVID-19 pandemic given the increased stress experienced by families and reduced visibility outside the home. Child maltreatment investigators witnessed the effects of the pandemic on maltreated children and offer valuable insight regarding children's experiences during the pandemic. The objective of this study was to examine child maltreatment investigators' perspectives of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maltreated children and their families in Canada. Sixteen child maltreatment investigators were recruited from agencies across Canada that investigate or offer services to children suspected of having been maltreated. Three focus groups were conducted, which followed a semi-structured interview guide developed by the researchers. Thematic analysis resulted in five primary themes regarding maltreatment investigators' perceptions of the pandemic's effects on children, including child maltreatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, increased exposure to violent and traumatic events, stress and challenges faced by families, reduced access to services, and challenges and delays with maltreatment investigations. Child maltreatment investigators perceived that the pandemic profoundly impacted maltreated children and their families. It is critical to ensure children and parents have access to services during future emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Baker
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Katie A Berens
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | | | - Kaila C Bruer
- Department of Psychology, Luther College at the University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Angela D Evans
- Department of Psychology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Heather L Price
- Department of Psychology, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, Canada
| | - Shanna Williams
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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2
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Romain Dagenhardt DM, Liu X, Richards J, Mersky J. Family treatment courts and the COVID-19 pandemic: Barriers and facilitators to program implementation, client engagement, and recovery. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 159:209278. [PMID: 38135119 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Family Treatment Courts (FTCs) serve child welfare-involved parents with substance use issues who are working toward recovery and reunification with their children. Research has linked FTCs to successful outcomes such as treatment access and completion and family reunification, but there has been less attention to factors that hinder and facilitate program implementation and client engagement. Moreover, little is known about how the shift to virtual services during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted FTC programs and the families they serve. METHODS This study examined interview data gathered from staff in six FTCs located in different regions of the country to investigate the impact of the pandemic on programs and the clients they serve. Interviews conducted with clients from one FTC in the Midwest reinforce the data. RESULTS FTC programs and professionals adjusted to the pandemic by attempting to replicate face-to-face services in an online environment. Virtual services were vital for sustaining FTCs and mitigating barriers to client engagement during the pandemic. At the same time, FTCs were compelled to navigate new barriers to online program implementation as well as acute challenges that clients faced such as greater isolation and reduced treatment access. CONCLUSIONS We discuss implications from these findings with an eye toward maximizing FTC implementation and impact through the intentional use of both in-person programming and online technology after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiyao Liu
- Department of Social Work, University of Wisconsin-, Milwaukee, United States of America
| | - Jayden Richards
- Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology, University of Wisconsin -, Milwaukee, United States of America
| | - Joshua Mersky
- Department of Social Work, University of Wisconsin-, Milwaukee, United States of America
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3
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Landers J, Madden E, Furlong W. Social Workers' Experiences of Support in the Workplace during the COVID-19 Pandemic. SOCIAL WORK 2023; 68:267-276. [PMID: 37468436 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study included in-depth semistructured interviews with 17 social workers from across the state of Texas that took place during the summer of 2021. The purpose of this study was to describe social workers' experiences of workplace support during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide implications for how to improve support in the workplace. The interviews were analyzed using a phenomenological approach to describe the main themes of the participants' experiences. The findings combined with current literature suggest that following the pandemic and in the case of similar prolonged disasters organizational leaders should consider supporting their social work staff by clearly communicating protocol changes, providing more autonomy and flexible work arrangements, increasing time off and financial support, and providing tangible assistance such as technological support. Leaders should also consider their social work staff's emotional well-being following the pandemic by providing therapeutic resources and bonding opportunities for staff to promote a more resilient team-like culture in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Landers
- PhD, LMSW, is a postdoctoral research fellow, Diana R. Garland School of Social Work, Baylor University, 811 Washington Avenue, Waco, TX 76701, USA
| | - Elissa Madden
- PhD, MSW, is associate professor, Diana R. Garland School of Social Work, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Wesley Furlong
- MSW, is a PhD candidate, Diana R. Garland School of Social Work, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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4
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Engström M, Jarnheden SH, Tham P. Staff quality of working life and turnover intentions in municipal nursing care and social welfare: a cross-sectional study. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:171. [PMID: 37202759 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01339-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses and social workers are two common professions with a university degree working within municipal nursing care and social welfare. Both groups have high turnover intention rates, and there is a need to better understand their quality of working life and turnover intentions in general and more specifically during the Covid-19 pandemic. This study investigated associations between working life, coping strategies and turnover intentions of staff with a university degree working within municipal care and social welfare during the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional design; 207 staff completed questionnaires and data were analyzed using multiple linear regression analyses. RESULTS Turnover intentions were common. For registered nurses 23% thought of leaving the workplace and 14% the profession 'rather often' and 'very often/always'. The corresponding figures for social workers were 22% (workplace) and 22% (profession). Working life variables explained 34-36% of the variance in turnover intentions. Significant variables in the multiple linear regression models were work-related stress, home-work interface and job-career satisfaction (both for the outcome turnover intentions profession and workplace) and Covid-19 exposure/patients (turnover intentions profession). For the chosen coping strategies, 'exercise', 'recreation and relaxation' and 'improving skills', the results (associations with turnover) were non-significant. However, comparing the groups social workers reported that they used 'recreation and relaxation' more often than were reported by registered nurses. CONCLUSIONS More work-related stress, worse home-work interface and less job-career satisfaction together with Covid-19 exposure/patients (Covid-19 only for turnover profession) increase turnover intentions. Recommendations are that managers should strive for better home-work interface and job-career satisfaction, monitor and counteract work-related stress to prevent turnover intentions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Engström
- Department of Caring Science, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden.
- Medicine College, Lishui University, No. 1 Xueyuan Road, Lishui city, China.
| | - Sofia Hanberger Jarnheden
- Department of Social Work and Criminology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Pia Tham
- Department of Social Work and Criminology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
- Department of Social Work, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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5
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Segal M, Gur A. Ethical and legal dilemmas experienced by Israeli social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 23:411-427. [PMID: 38603438 PMCID: PMC9941451 DOI: 10.1177/14680173221144203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Summary The Covid-19 pandemic (Coronavirus) has created complex challenges for recipients of social services worldwide and for the social workers entrusted with assisting them. This article presents a study of the decision-making process of Israeli social workers when coping with ethical and legal dilemmas arising during the pandemic. Method A qualitative self-administered survey was completed by 478 social workers who worked during the Covid-19 pandemic. Thematic analysis was used to identify major themes. Findings We identified three major themes. The first theme was concern over the potential violation of the service users' privacy and confidentiality due to the unique circumstances of the pandemic. The second theme was the danger to the social workers' health when serving clients during the pandemic. The third theme focused on difficulties in providing professional services during the pandemic. Applications We present several recommendations to help social workers cope with ethical and legal decisions in national emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Segal
- Social Work Department, Tel-Hai College, Upper Galilee, Israel
| | - Ayelet Gur
- Social Work Department, Tel-Hai College, Upper Galilee, Israel
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6
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Zerden LDS, Ross AM, Cederbaum J, Guan T, Zelnick J, Ruth BJ. Race and COVID-19 among Social Workers in Health Settings: Physical, Mental Health, Personal Protective Equipment, and Financial Stressors. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2023; 48:91-104. [PMID: 36869753 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlad002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Social work is an essential workforce integral to the United States' public health infrastructure and response to COVID-19. To understand stressors among frontline social workers during COVID-19, a cross-sectional study of U.S-based social workers (N = 1,407) in health settings was collected (in June through August 2020). Differences in outcome domains (health, mental health, personal protective equipment [PPE] access, financial stress) were examined by workers' demographics and setting. Ordinal logistic, multinomial, and linear regressions were conducted. Participants reported moderate or severe physical (57.3 percent) and mental (58.3 percent) health concerns; 39.3 percent expressed PPE access concerns. Social workers of color were more likely to report significantly higher levels of concern across all domains. Those identifying as Black, American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN), Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI), multiracial, or Hispanic/Latinx were over 50 percent more likely to experience either moderate or severe physical health concerns, 60 percent more likely to report severe mental health concerns, and over 30 percent more likely to report moderate PPE access concerns. The linear regression model was significantly associated with higher levels of financial stress for social workers of color. COVID-19 has exposed racial and social injustices that that hold true for social workers in health settings. Improved social systems are critical not just for those impacted by COVID-19, but also for the protection and sustainability of the current and future workforce responding to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa de Saxe Zerden
- PhD, MSW, is associate professor, School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 325 Pittsboro Street, CB 3550, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3550, USA
| | - Abigail M Ross
- PhD, is assistant professor, Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, NY USA
| | - Julie Cederbaum
- PhD, is associate professor, Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ting Guan
- MS, is an assistant professor, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Zelnick
- ScD, is social welfare policy chair and professor, Graduate School of Social Work, Touro College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Betty J Ruth
- MSW, is a retired clinical professor, School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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7
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Rahman R, Azhar S, Wernick LJ, Huang D, Maschi T, Rosenblatt C, Patel R. COVID-19 stigma and depression across race, ethnicity and residence. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2023; 62:121-142. [PMID: 36934345 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2023.2193263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Our cross-sectional study seeks to understand how COVID-19 stigma, race/ethnicity [Asian, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, white] and residency [New York City (NYC) resident vs. non-NYC resident] associated with depression. Our sample includes 568 participants: 260 (45.77%) were NYC residents and 308 (54.3%) were non-NYC residents. A series of multiple linear regression were run to examine the relationship between race/ethnicity, COVID-19 stigma, and depressive symptoms. Irrespective of residency, older age and ever being diagnosed with COVID-19 were negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Stigma and thinking less of oneself significantly associates with depressive symptoms across residency. Our study expects to benefit mental health care providers and public health professionals in designing best practices to mitigate stigma in ongoing or future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahbel Rahman
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Sameena Azhar
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Laura J Wernick
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Debbie Huang
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Tina Maschi
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Cassidy Rosenblatt
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Rupal Patel
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, United States
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8
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Yadav R. The 6 A's model of social worker associations and COVID-19: A preliminary insight. QUALITATIVE SOCIAL WORK : QSW : RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 22:357-380. [PMID: 38603089 PMCID: PMC8859480 DOI: 10.1177/14733250211068066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
This paper offers the 6 A's model of social worker associations and COVID-19, which includes (i) 'Apprehend', (ii) 'act', (iii) 'advocate', (iv) 'alliance', (v) 'an emphasis on solidarity and resilience' and (vi) 'a future prospect'. The model is based on the findings of qualitative analysis of social worker associations' reports on COVID-19. It also offers insights that can be utilised in similar crises in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Yadav
- School of Law and Society, University of the Sunshine
Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
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9
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Nicholas DB, Samson P, Hilsen L. Examining the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on social work in health care. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 23:334-349. [PMID: 38603258 PMCID: PMC9816628 DOI: 10.1177/14680173221142767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Summary This qualitative study examined the COVID-19 pandemic as experienced by healthcare-based social workers in relation to practice, and personal and professional impacts of providing care in this context, with recommendations for pandemic preparedness and response. A total of 12 focus groups were convened between June 2020 and March 2021, comprising 67 hospital social workers across multiple hospitals and other care facilities in western Canada. Findings Based on an Interpretive Description approach, themes emerged reflecting practice shifts; increased work and changing roles; imposed restrictions; problems in communication and decision-making; distress, fear, and demoralization; and co-existing silver linings amid challenges. Applications The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially impacted social workers and their delivery of service. Addressing concerns through proactive responsiveness, both during and beyond the pandemic, are important in nurturing patient-centered care and a supported workforce. Along with that of interdisciplinary colleagues in health care, social workers' practice has been profoundly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the experiences of social workers in healthcare settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Nicholas
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Central and Northern Alberta Region, Edmonton, Alberta,
Canada
| | - Patricia Samson
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Central and Northern Alberta Region, Edmonton, Alberta,
Canada
| | - Leeann Hilsen
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Central and Northern Alberta Region, Edmonton, Alberta,
Canada
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10
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Ravalier J, McFadden P, Gillen P, Mallett J, Nicholl P, Neill R, Manthorpe J, Moriarty J, Schroder H, Curry D. Working conditions and well-being in UK social care and social work during COVID-19. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 23:165-188. [PMID: 38603207 PMCID: PMC9264376 DOI: 10.1177/14680173221109483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Summary Stress and mental health are among the biggest causes of sickness absence in the UK, with the Social Work and Social Care sectors having among the highest levels of stress and mental health sickness absence of all professions in the UK. Chronically poor working conditions are known to impact employees' psychological and physiological health. The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected both the mode and method of work in Social Care and Social Work. Through a series of cross-sectional online surveys, completed by a total of 4,950 UK Social Care and Social Workers, this study reports the changing working conditions and well-being of UK Social Care and Social Workers at two time points (phases) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings All working conditions and well-being measures were found to be significantly worse during Phase 2 (November-January 2021) than Phase 1 (May-July 2020), with worse psychological well-being than the UK average in Phase 2. Furthermore, our findings indicate that in January 2021, feelings about general well-being, control at work, and working conditions predicted worsened psychological well-being. Applications Our findings highlight the importance of understanding and addressing the impact of the pandemic on the Social Care and Social Work workforce, thus highlighting that individuals, organizations, and governments need to develop mechanisms to support these employees during and beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ruth Neill
- University of
Ulster, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK
| | | | | | | | - Denise Curry
- Queen’s University
Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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11
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Ventura L, Chiarelli-Helminiak CM, Frankel AS, Hipple E, Ibrahim J, Sharma S, Wolcott J, Metz SM. "Unprecedented Times:" Experiences of Social Work and Public Health Professionals during Times of Public Crises. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 38:121-134. [PMID: 35833750 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2022.2097973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Social workers and public health professionals in the U.S. were profoundly impacted by COVID-19, systemic racism, and the 2020 U.S. presidential election. This study examined their external job support, burnout, and job satisfaction in the context of these circumstances. The findings suggest respondents, who had graduate degrees in social work or public health, overemphasized their job satisfaction and underemphasized their burnout. While social work and public health professionals felt satisfied with their labor, not acknowledging burnout limits the amount of support they may access to effectively continue the work. Interestingly, participants who had more administrative functions reported higher job satisfaction scores and lower burnout scores. Traditionally, those in administrative positions have more control over their schedule and work responsibilities. Findings suggest that more training, opportunities for self-care, and discussions about safety and systemic racism are needed in the workplace for social workers and public health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Ventura
- Department of Graduate Social Work, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Anne S Frankel
- College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Erin Hipple
- Department of Graduate Social Work, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jennifer Ibrahim
- College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sinja Sharma
- Department of Health, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jack Wolcott
- Department of Graduate Social Work, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stacie M Metz
- Department of Health, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Steen JT, Kravitz T. Social Workers and Physical Health: Imperative Medical Issues and COVID-19. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2023; 48:75-78. [PMID: 36453899 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlac034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Steen
- is assistant professor, School of Social Work, Barry University, 11300 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, FL 33161, USA
| | - Taylor Kravitz
- is a postbaccalaureate student, Postbaccalaureate Prehealth Studies Program, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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13
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Wang H, Farokhnia F, Sanchuli N. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of workers and the associated social-economic aspects: A narrative review. Work 2023; 74:31-45. [PMID: 36245355 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has struck nations worldwide, pushing worldwide health and socio-economic systems to extreme limits. Upon exposure to an exceeding number of patients and supply shortages, the resilience of healthcare resources has been broadly challenged. OBJECTIVE We will firstly discuss the mental health turmoil during the COVID-19 pandemic as the primary focus of this study and delve into the mental health repercussions among the workforce. Also, we debate the risk factors, particularly highlighting the impact of social behaviors and media exposure. We examine the pandemic's impact on occupational health services. Secondly, we thoroughly discuss the effect of socio-economic and race disparities in the COVID-19 contraction and the related psychologic sequelae. Economic outcomes are also highlighted, particularly alterations in poverty rates and occupational sectors. METHODS Peer-reviewed reports were extracted through Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar until June 2022. RESULTS A constellation of untoward spillover effects of the pandemic, including dramatic changes in public and workplace environments, enduring curfew, and low wages, have put socio-economic aspects of daily life under exuberant strain. Indeed, occupational and public health stakeholders presume a coinciding social crisis to occur, provided the pandemic's implications on socioeconomics and psychological wellbeing are not addressed well with evidence-based approaches and peer services. CONCLUSION Evaluating the socio-economic and mental health impact is imperative to cope with the pandemic. Also, we should assess the predisposing and protecting factors in a broad array of life aspects associated with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- School of Tourism, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Fahimeh Farokhnia
- Department of Pediatrics, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Narges Sanchuli
- Department of Education Sciences, Islamic Azad University of Gorgan, Gorgan, Iran
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14
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Cooke CD. Black women social workers: Workplace stress
experiences. QUALITATIVE SOCIAL WORK 2023:14733250231151954. [PMCID: PMC9841199 DOI: 10.1177/14733250231151954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Black women social workers (BWSWs) represent essential workforce members who are
burdened by ongoing COVID-19 circumstances. Strategies to deal with highly
stressful situations on the job, such as those experienced in 2020, were absent
from the research literature leaving intervention strategies to support highly
stressed BWSWs unknown. This study aimed to uncover the various ways BWSWs
experienced their organizations as they performed work duties. Atlas.ti. 9 was
used to analyze verbatim transcripts from 17 semi-structured qualitative
interviews given by BWSWs across the United States in February 2021. Hermeneutic
phenomenology was implemented to interpret interview data. The convenience
sample was drawn from professional organizations where BWSWs claimed membership
and volunteered to be electronically interviewed for 2 hours generating themes
such as stress perceptions, institutional barriers to efficient work
productivity and recommendations for workplace support. BWSWs reported high
stress work environments in the past year. Some believed that their health and
mental health declined because of the inability to find work-home life balance.
Findings suggest BWSWs persevere regardless of high levels of stress and being
unsupported in the workplace in order to maintain a livelihood. BWSWs play a
crucial role in the lives of vulnerable populations, but need to attend to ways
to be healthier given the polarization associated with racism, classism, and
sexism experienced. Thematically, the data revealed stressful situations in the
workplace and how organizations have failed to implement strategies in order to
improve social worker health. Suggestions for workplace supports were also
identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collina D Cooke
- Collina D Cooke, School of Social Welfare,
University at Albany, 135 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12222-0100, USA.
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15
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Segev E. "A breath of fresh air": mindfulness training for early-career mental health social workers in Israel during COVID-19. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2023; 62:19-40. [PMID: 36606640 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2023.2165597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined the effectiveness of participation in a mindfulness group for Israeli early career social workers during the COVID-19 period. Eleven participants conducting fieldwork in a mental health rehabilitation center were interviewed. The participants described a variety of benefits from their mindfulness training, in three main areas: (1) Personal: applying mindfulness in their daily life; (2) Family: improved work-life balance and family relationships; and (3) Professional: applying mindfulness in their work with mental health clients. Mental support and self-care tools provided to early-career social workers were perceived by the participants as helping them overcome uncertainty, fatigue, and overwork.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einav Segev
- School of Social Work, Sapir College D.N. Hof Ashkelon, Israel
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16
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McCoyd JLM, Curran L, Candelario E, Findley PA, Hennessey K. Social service providers under COVID-19 duress: adaptation, burnout, and resilience. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 23:85-102. [PMID: 38603099 PMCID: PMC9218608 DOI: 10.1177/14680173221109414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Summary This article examines the response of social services organizations and their workers to the COVID-19 pandemic in a northeastern U.S. state. Using an exploratory, cross-sectional survey design with a convenience sample (N = 1472), we ask: (1) how did agencies and social service workers manage service disruptions associated with COVID-19; (2) how did social service workers perceive shifts in clients' needs; (3) how did social service workers experience the transition to remote interactions with clients; and (4) how did social service workers cope with COVID-related transitions and demands. Findings Our findings tell a story of unprecedented crises alongside powerful attempts at adaptation, innovation, and resilience. Faced with extraordinary need among their clients, fears for their own health, and a breakdown of organizational and community functioning and guidance, social workers were able to learn and implement new technologies, adapt to increasing demands, manage new work-life boundaries, and find ways to address gaps in service while experiencing symptoms of burnout. Application The impact of supervisory and administrative fragmentation and communication breakdowns in the face of crisis put social workers in an untenable position despite surprising abilities to adapt, innovate, and manage their professional lives while under duress. Assuring better supervisory/administrative infrastructure to support workers as they deliver services during crises will help in future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Curran
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, USA
| | - Elsa Candelario
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, USA
| | | | - Kerry Hennessey
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, USA
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Schwartz Tayri TM. On the Frontlines: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Social Workers' Well-Being. SOCIAL WORK 2022; 68:69-80. [PMID: 36409997 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swac050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The crisis created by the spread of COVID-19 brought increasing needs and referrals to social welfare services in many countries. However, at the same time, social services suffered from staff cutbacks and service closures, resulting in significant workload increases to address the hardships associated with the pandemic. This article investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Israeli social workers' well-being, using a mixed-methods design with a sample of 2,542 licensed social workers. Findings show that over 70 percent of social workers suffered from at least one health problem related to their work. Path analysis findings indicated that social workers who experienced greater service restrictions reported a greater decrease in job satisfaction and experienced higher levels of stress and work-related problems. Machine learning emotion-detection analysis revealed that the pandemic affected their lives, causing feelings of fear, frustration, and sadness. This article demonstrates how social workers whose work was characterized by greater service restrictions were less satisfied with their jobs, more stressed, and experienced greater job-related health problems, and concludes with a discussion of the implications for social work practice in times of crisis.
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Cederbaum JA, Ross AM, Zerden LDS, Estenson L, Zelnick J, Ruth BJ. "We are on the frontlines too": A qualitative content analysis of US social workers' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e5412-e5422. [PMID: 35932168 PMCID: PMC9539110 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Social work has been a part of the essential workforce historically and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, yet lack recognition. This work explores the experiences and invisibility of social workers within the pandemic response. Data are drawn from a large cross-sectional survey of US-based social worker from June to August of 2020. A summative content analysis of responses to the question 'What do you wish people knew about social work during the COVID-19 pandemic' was undertaken. Participants (n = 515) were majority white (72.1%) and female (90.8%). Seven coding categories were subsequently collapsed into three domains: (1) meeting basic needs, (2) well-being (emotional distress and dual role) and (3) professional invisibility (workplace equals, physical safety, professional invisibility and organisational invisibility). Meeting social needs requires broad-based policies that strengthen the health and social safety net. Social workers have and will continue to play a critical role in the response, and recovery from COVID-19. Organisational and governmental policies must expand to increase the visibility and responsiveness to the needs of social care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Cederbaum
- Suzanne Dworak‐Peck School of Social WorkUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Abigail M. Ross
- Graduate School of Social ServiceFordham UniversityNew York CityNew YorkUSA
| | - Lisa de Saxe Zerden
- School of Social WorkUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lilly Estenson
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jennifer Zelnick
- Touro College Graduate School of Social WorkNew York CityNew YorkUSA
| | - Betty J. Ruth
- School of Social WorkBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
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19
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Schneider J, Tsoukalas T, Zulla R, Nicholas D, Hewson J. Exploring the COVID-19 Practice Experiences of Social Workers Working in Long Term Care. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2022:1-13. [PMID: 36285417 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2022.2139321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in multiple public health protocols that shaped the service delivery system supporting older adults, their family caregivers and their formal care providers. In this qualitative study, sixteen social workers employed in long term care facilities in a western province of Canada shared their perspectives about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on their practice early in the pandemic. Participants responded to nine open-ended online survey questions about their practice and experiences. Four themes were identified: (1) a changing and demanding work environment, (2) witnessing transitions in residents' quality of life, (3) impacts on relationships and work climate, and (4) personal impacts on social workers. Recommendations for enhancing capacity in the system were identified. Implications of findings illuminate a need for proactive preparedness approaches in order for social workers to address emergent and changing needs of residents and their families during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joann Schneider
- Continuing Care, Edmonton Zone, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Rosslynn Zulla
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - David Nicholas
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Jennifer Hewson
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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20
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Yuan B, Lan J, Li J. Disparity in Occupational Health Risk During the Pandemic: Potential Misestimation and Its Implications for Health Policies. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:809-814. [PMID: 35673258 PMCID: PMC9524524 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study clarifies potential misestimation of occupational risk caused by the dichotomy of frontline essential and nonessential occupations in prior studies. METHODS The linear regression is used to investigate the occupational risk in terms of incidence rate, hospitalization, and mortality on community level during the pandemic. RESULTS Overall, frontline essential occupations were positively associated with incidence rate, hospitalization, and mortality (156.06, 18.47, and 3.49; P < 0.01). Among essential occupations, however, education, training, and library occupations were negatively associated with them, whereas transportation, protective service, food preparation, and serving occupations were insignificantly associated with them. Moreover, among nonessential occupations, building and grounds cleaning, construction, and extraction occupations were positively associated with them. CONCLUSION The dichotomy of frontline essential and nonessential occupations can bring overestimation and underestimation of occupational risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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21
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Wu Y, Wei Y, Li Y, Pang J, Su Y. Burnout, negative emotions, and wellbeing among social workers in China after community lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic: Mediating roles of trait mindfulness. Front Public Health 2022; 10:952269. [PMID: 36187705 PMCID: PMC9516329 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.952269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate burnout situation of social workers (SWs) who experienced the COVID-19 pandemic-related community lockdown 1 year before, and to assess the protective value of trait mindfulness (TM) in states of burnout. Method We surveyed the burnout, trait mindfulness, negative emotions (NEs) and wellbeing (WB) of 182 social workers provided services to Wuhan lockdowns community by COVID-19 one year before. Burnout were measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey; TM using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale; NEs using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21; and WB using the General Wellbeing Schedule. We also performed correlation regression analysis and mediation test for burnout, TM, NEs, and WB. Results Among the 182 respondents, 75 (41.2%) still suffered from severe burnout. TM was negatively correlated with burnout (r = -0.623), negatively correlated with NEs (r = -0.560), and positively correlated with WB (r = 0.617). Burnout had a significantly positive correlation with NEs (r = 0.544) and a significantly negative correlation with WB (r = -0.666). Further, WB had significantly negative correlation with NEs (r = -0.758). After controlling for age, gender, marital status, educational level, and years of employment, burnout had a significantly positive predictive effect on NEs (β = 0.509), whereas TM had a significantly negative predictive effect on NEs (β = -0.334). TM played a partial mediating role in the effect of burnout on NEs, with a mediating effect and effect ratio of 0.088 and 39.7%, respectively. Burnout had a significantly negative predictive effect on WB (β = -0.598), whereas TM had a significantly positive predictive effect on WB (β = 0.299). TM played a partial mediating role in the effect of burnout on NEs, with a mediating effect and effect ratio of -0.164 and 30.3%, respectively. WB had a significantly negative predictive effect on NEs (β = -0.711), and it played a partial mediating role in the effect of burnout on NEs, with a mediating effect and effect ratio of 0.185 and 83.3%, respectively. Conclusion The current levels of burnout among local SWs remained high 1 year after the community lockdowns. TM played a mediating role in the relationship between burnout, NEs, and WB. Concomitantly, WB played a mediating role in the relationship between burnout and NEs. Therefore, in the context of burnout, TM is a protective factor for reducing emotional stress and risks of developing psychiatric disorders through the enhancement of WB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxue Wu
- Beijing Huilongguan Hospital Clinical Department III, Peking University Huilongguan Medical College, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Yaxue Wu
| | - Yue Wei
- Zhongke Boai (Beijing) Institute of Psychological Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanli Li
- Beijing Huilongguan Hospital Clinical Department III, Peking University Huilongguan Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Pang
- Guangzhou Juenian Consulting Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Su
- Hainan Mindfulness Education Technology Co., Ltd., Haikou, China
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22
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Schiff M, Chow A, Noi GS. Riding the waves of the pandemic from West to East: The social workers' experience an International collaboration on study of social workers during COVID-19. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2022; 61:185-198. [PMID: 35929856 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2022.2108569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Schiff
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, The Hebrew University, Israel
| | - Amy Chow
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Goh Soon Noi
- Medical Social Services, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
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23
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Craig SL, Kourgiantakis T, Kirkland A, Muskat B, Sur D. Riding the wave: pandemic social work in hospitals. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2022; 61:323-337. [PMID: 35786167 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2022.2085232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted social work practice globally. Using a cross-sectional survey, we examined the experiences of hospital social workers (N = 230) in Ontario, Canada during the second wave of the pandemic. Nearly three quarters (73%) of respondents reported workload changes, and 82% had increased responsibilities due to patient care demands. Hospital social workers adapted and made an important contribution to health care during the pandemic by employing virtual resources, supporting interprofessional colleagues, focusing on advocacy, and providing mental health and trauma-focused care. They sought educational opportunities and contributed to the development of procedures. Recommendations to strengthen hospital pandemic social work practice are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley L Craig
- Faculty of Social Work, University of TorontoFactor-Inwentash, Ontario, Canada
| | - Toula Kourgiantakis
- Faculty of Social Work, University of TorontoFactor-Inwentash, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexa Kirkland
- Faculty of Social Work, University of TorontoFactor-Inwentash, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barbara Muskat
- Faculty of Social Work, University of TorontoFactor-Inwentash, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deepy Sur
- Ontario Association of Social Workers, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Williams S, Bruer KC, Evans AD, Price HL. The impact of COVID-19 on Canadian child maltreatment workers. CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW 2022; 138:106492. [PMID: 35400775 PMCID: PMC8983073 DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As cases of child maltreatment become an increasing concern during the COVID-19 pandemic, the perspectives of those charged with protecting and supporting children and families is an important area of inquiry. We sought to examine the experiences of child maltreatment workers during the first wave of the pandemic (i.e., May-July 2020). We specifically aimed to examine child maltreatment experiences related to the following: (1) their work practices during the pandemic, (2) their perceived safety during the pandemic, and (3) their perceptions on the safety of the children and families with whom they work. A total of 106 child maltreatment investigators and forensic interviewers provided responses to a national survey disseminated across Canada. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected through a survey management program. The survey combined both open-ended and forced choice questions to gather perspectives on respondents' experiences. More than half (67%) reported a reduction in their caseloads during the pandemic (May-July 2020) and continued in-person interviews, with the use of preventative health measures (i.e., PPE, physical distancing, gloves). Most respondents reported elevated stress levels and similarly high stress levels amongst the children and families to whom they provide services. Overall, our findings highlight both how child maltreatment investigators have adapted to preventative measures and the continuing areas of weakness where further supports are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanna Williams
- Faculty of Education, McGill University, Room 614, Education Building, 3700 McTavish Street, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1Y2, Canada
| | - Kaila C Bruer
- Faculty of Arts, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
- Luther College, Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Angela D Evans
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A, Canada
| | - Heather L Price
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Thompson Rivers University, 805 TRU Way, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada
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25
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Ghoroubi N, Counil E, Khlat M. Socio-Demographic Composition and Potential Occupational Exposure to SARS-CoV2 under Routine Working Conditions among Key Workers in France. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:7741. [PMID: 35805399 PMCID: PMC9266028 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to describe the socio-demographic profile of so-called "key workers" during the first lockdown in France and to assess their potential occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2 under routine, pre-pandemic working conditions. We used the French list of essential jobs that was issued during the first lockdown to identify three subgroups of key workers (hospital healthcare, non-hospital healthcare, non-healthcare). Based on the population-based "Conditions de travail-2019" survey, we described the socio-demographic composition of key workers and their potential work-related exposures (to "infectious agents," "face-to-face contact with the public," and "working with colleagues") using modified Poisson regression. In general, women, clerical and manual workers, workers on temporary contracts, those with lower education and income, and non-European immigrants were more likely to be key workers, who accounted for 22% of the active population. Non-healthcare essential workers (57%) were the most socially disadvantaged, while non-hospital healthcare workers (19%) were polarized at both extremes of the social scale; hospital healthcare workers (24%) were intermediate. Compared to non-key workers, all subgroups had greater exposure to infectious agents and more physical contact with the public. This study provides evidence of accumulated disadvantages among key workers concerning their social background, geographical origin, and potential SARS-CoV-2 exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Ghoroubi
- The French Institute for Demographic Studies (Ined), 9 Cours des Humanités, 93322 Aubervilliers, France; (E.C.); (M.K.)
- Doctoral School of Public Health (EDSP), Paris Saclay University, 16 Avenue Paul Vaillant Couturier, 94807 Villejuif, France
| | - Emilie Counil
- The French Institute for Demographic Studies (Ined), 9 Cours des Humanités, 93322 Aubervilliers, France; (E.C.); (M.K.)
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire sur les Enjeux Sociaux—Sciences Sociales, Politique, Santé, IRIS (UMR 8156 CNRS—EHESS—U997 INSERM), 5 Cours des Humanités, 93322 Aubervilliers, France
| | - Myriam Khlat
- The French Institute for Demographic Studies (Ined), 9 Cours des Humanités, 93322 Aubervilliers, France; (E.C.); (M.K.)
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26
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Toros K, Falch-Eriksen A. The voices of parents in child protective services: A qualitative analysis of families' struggles with COVID-19. DEVELOPMENTAL CHILD WELFARE 2022; 4:97-113. [PMID: 38603234 PMCID: PMC9047598 DOI: 10.1177/25161032221094045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The pandemic of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected children and families worldwide, disrupting their daily lives and well-being. A small-scale study involving 13 parents in Child Protective Services in Estonia was conducted using in-depth, semi-structured interviews to explore parents' experiences with COVID-19 and its impact on their families' well-being. The findings indicated that one of the areas most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic was schooling, as the implementation of remote schooling often created tensions and conflicts at home. Parents reported regression in daily functioning, attributing this to the lack of supportive services during lockdown and additional distress resulting from increased workload at home and problems with balancing home and work life. Parents were exhausted by the various problems caused by the pandemic and questioned their ability to provide their children the support they needed. Discontinuation of services intensified existing challenges for both parents and children. Furthermore, a lack of trust in Child Protective Services was identified, serving as a barrier to asking for help in times of crisis.
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27
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Ratzon A, Farhi M, Ratzon N, Adini B. Resilience at Work, Burnout, Secondary Trauma, and Compassion Satisfaction of Social Workers Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:5500. [PMID: 35564893 PMCID: PMC9099676 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic are at risk due to exposure to varied populations in need, which may impact their resilience, burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion satisfaction. The study assessed resilience at work, burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion satisfaction among social workers in Israel during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (May to June 2020). A convenience sample of 332 social workers (291 women (87.6%)) filled out an online, structured questionnaire that included demographics, a professional quality of life scale (ProQOL) (including three subscales), and resilience at work (RAW) (including seven subscales). The overall mean of the RAW was medium (M = 71, SD ± 8.9) compared to standardized scores. The mean scores of two of the subscales of the RAW, maintaining perspective and staying healthy, were low. The mean scores of the sub-scales of ProQOL were: compassion satisfaction was close to the 50th percentile (M = 48.25); burnout (M = 30.18) and secondary trauma (M = 26.27) were below the 25th percentile. Significant low to medium positive associations were found between all the dependent variables, except for staying healthy. A negative association was identified between compassion satisfaction and burnout, as well as between compassion satisfaction and secondary trauma. High levels of compassion satisfaction and contentment, low levels of secondary trauma, and having a managerial position were predicted to be 40% of the RAW. Lower levels of maintaining perspective, secondary trauma, and being younger predicted 27% of burnout. Higher levels of finding your calling, living authentically, maintaining perspective, interacting cooperatively, being older, and not being a manager predicted 58% of compassion satisfaction. Lower levels of burnout, maintaining perspective, and being younger predicted 36% of secondary trauma. As the COVID-19 pandemic still challenges most societies, policymakers should consider ways to integrate mechanisms that will enhance social workers' resilience at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anva Ratzon
- Independent Researcher, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Moshe Farhi
- Social Work Department, Tel-Hai College, Qiryat Shemona 1220800, Israel;
| | - Navah Ratzon
- Occupational Therapy Department, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Bruria Adini
- Department of Emergency & Disaster Management, School of Public Health, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
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28
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Zerden LD, Guan T, Shurer J, Kreitzer L, Book E. Social work, Parkinson's disease care, and COVID-19. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2022; 61:139-157. [PMID: 35481456 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2022.2069902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's Disease is a neurological disease affecting over 10 million people worldwide. Interdisciplinary teams provide integrated care to people with Parkinson's Disease, including care for non-motor symptoms such as anxiety and depression, and many of these teams include social workers. This study sought to learn more about (a) clinical social work utilization across the continuum of care of PWP and their family care partners and (b) how patterns in utilization and service provision have shifted during the pandemic. This mixed method study identifies the breadth of roles performed by social workers in the comprehensive care of people with Parkinson's Disease (PWP). Findings underscore the important roles social workers play in providing comprehensive care for PWP and their families and their contributions to interdisciplinary teams providing holistic, integrated care, particularly during COVID-19 and into the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D Zerden
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ting Guan
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- University of Syracuse, Falk College, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jessica Shurer
- Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Linda Kreitzer
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Elaine Book
- Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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29
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Magruder L, Wilke D, Radey M, Cain M, Yelick A. COVID-19's Social Ecological Impacts on Health and Human Services Worker Well-being. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 37:233-243. [PMID: 34766877 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2021.1997864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Health and human services workers (HHS; e.g., child welfare, physical and mental healthcare) engage with clients facing heightened vulnerability during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under typical circumstances, HHS workers face a host of challenges in carrying out their job responsibilities such as high caseloads and burnout, and now navigate new challenges such as social distancing protocols and protecting their own health and that of their families and clients. This study explored the experiences of 531 HHS workers in Florida to understand well-being impacts of COVID-19 on the HHS workforce. Using a social ecological framework, we analyzed open-ended responses from HHS workers to better understand the multi-level and frequently intertwined impacts of COVID-19. Participants reported numerous proximal factors (i.e., intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational) impacting their well-being but fewer distal factors (i.e., community, public policy). Agencies should work to understand the intersecting vulnerabilities of their workers and implement safety protocols to preserve workers' well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Magruder
- Florida Institute for Child Welfare, College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - D Wilke
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - M Radey
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - M Cain
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - A Yelick
- Florida Institute for Child Welfare, College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
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30
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Ross AM, Cederbaum JA, de Saxe Zerden L, Zelnick JR, Ruth BJ, Guan T. Bearing a Disproportionate Burden: Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Experiences of U.S.-Based Social Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic. SOCIAL WORK 2021; 67:swab050. [PMID: 34850212 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While social workers have served as frontline workers responding to the needs of vulnerable populations during COVID-19 pandemic, little is known about how social work professionals themselves have been impacted. This article explored the impact of COVID-19 on social work professionals' mental health, physical health, and access to personal protective equipment (PPE). This was a cross-sectional web-based survey of social workers practicing in the United States (N = 3,118); data on demographic and workplace characteristics, physical and mental health, and safety concerns were collected between June and August of 2020. Univariate statistics were used to characterize the sample. Ordinal logistic and multinomial regression were used to achieve the research aims. The majority of participants reported either moderate or severe concerns related to mental (55 percent) and physical (55 percent) health; 36 percent of respondents indicated concerns about PPE access. Respondents' concerns differed by demographic (e.g., race, age) and workplace characteristics (e.g., setting, role, region). Social workers of color are experiencing COVID-19-related concerns of significantly greater severity relative to their White counterparts. Findings highlight an immediate need to deepen understanding of the factors that contribute to these trends and identify mechanisms to support the frontline social work workforce most impacted.
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Watson KR, Astor RA, Benbenishty R, Capp G, Kelly MS. Needs of Children and Families during Spring 2020 COVID-19 School Closures: Findings from a National Survey. SOCIAL WORK 2021; 67:swab052. [PMID: 34791495 PMCID: PMC8690010 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swab052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive reports during the COVID-19 pandemic of the academic challenges facing students, and the effects of online learning on academic achievements, we have little information regarding the needs and difficulties of K-12 students and their families from a social work perspective. The present article shares findings from a nationwide survey of 1,275 school social workers (SSWs) reporting on their clients-schools, children, and families-during the spring 2020 COVID-19 school closures. SSWs indicated that the children and families they served had significant unmet basic needs, including for food, healthcare, and housing. Poverty and mental health compounded pandemic difficulties, which were associated with the sociodemographic makeup of schools. Student engagement in social work services during the closures was significantly lower than prepandemic levels, generally due to unmet material needs. Several policy and practice implications arise from these findings, including a need for additional services for students and families, a plan to address structural inequities in our schools and communities, coordinated outreach to reengage missing students, and recognition of the strong work being done by school staff coupled with a need for additional supports and resources to combat persistent inequality.
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Alessi EJ, Hutchison C, Kahn S. Understanding COVID-19 through a Complex Trauma Lens: Implications for Effective Psychosocial Responses. SOCIAL WORK 2021; 67:swab045. [PMID: 34694385 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on individuals, families, and communities will likely persist for years to come. While briefing notes informed by disaster psychology and crisis management have been released to guide social workers and other mental health professionals in their work during the pandemic, the far-reaching impacts of COVID-19 may require inclusion of additional theories of trauma and resilience. Thus, this article first examines the application of complex trauma theory as an effective framework for assessing the psychosocial impacts of the pandemic, especially among individuals with prior trauma exposure, those with preexisting mental illness, and communities affected by marginalization and historical trauma. Authors then discuss the importance of using trauma-informed practice to address the effects of the pandemic on both individual and community levels during this unprecedented moment in history.
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McFadden P, Neill RD, Mallett J, Manthorpe J, Gillen P, Moriarty J, Currie D, Schroder H, Ravalier J, Nicholl P, Ross J. Mental well-being and quality of working life in UK social workers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A propensity score matching study. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK 2021:bcab198. [PMCID: PMC8500158 DOI: 10.1093/bjsw/bcab198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic interest into its potential impact on mental well-being has intensified. Within the social care sector, the pandemic has increased job demands and prolonged stress taking a disproportionate toll on the workforce, particularly social workers. This article compares the mental well-being and quality of working life of social workers in the United Kingdom (UK) before and during the pandemic. Data were collected in 2018 (N = 1,195) and 2020 (N = 1,024) using two cross-sectional surveys. To account for the differences between the datasets, propensity score matching was employed prior to effect estimation, utilising demographic and work-related variables common to both datasets. The differences between the two time-points were estimated using multiple regressions. Both mental well-being and quality of working life were significantly higher during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 compared to 2018. This suggests that during the highpoint of the pandemic in the UK, increased support, and changes to working practices, such as reprioritisation of work and other initiatives, may be responsible for increased mental well-being and quality of working life. While acknowledging the known pressures on UK social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic this evidence suggests a mixed picture of the pandemic with lessons for managers and employers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula McFadden
- School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Londonderry BT48 7JL, UK
- Correspondence to Paula McFadden, School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences, Magee Campus, Ulster University, Londonderry BT48 7JL, UK. E-mail:
| | - Ruth D Neill
- School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Londonderry BT48 7JL, UK
| | - John Mallett
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, Coleraine, BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Jill Manthorpe
- NIHR Health and Social Care Workforce Research Unit, King’s College London, London, 22 Kingsway, Holborn, London WC2B 6LE, UK
| | - Patricia Gillen
- School of Nursing, Ulster University, Jordanstown Campus, Newtownabbey BT37 0QB, UK
- Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Gilford BT63, UK
| | - John Moriarty
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT7 1HL, UK
| | - Denise Currie
- Queen’s Management School, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5EE, UK
| | - Heike Schroder
- Queen’s Management School, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5EE, UK
| | - Jermaine Ravalier
- School of Science, Bath Spa University, Newton St Loe, Bath BA2 9BN, UK
| | - Patricia Nicholl
- School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Londonderry BT48 7JL, UK
| | - Jana Ross
- School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Londonderry BT48 7JL, UK
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Alston M, Irons K, Adamson C, Boddy J, Fronek P, Briggs L, Hay K, Howard A, Rowlands A, Hazeleger T, Foote W. Australian and New Zealand social workers adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK 2021; 52:bcab163. [PMCID: PMC8385802 DOI: 10.1093/bjsw/bcab163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In 2020, social workers across the world responded to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the consequent strict lockdown procedures over several months. In many countries, including Australia and New Zealand, this virtual shutdown period necessitated a reframing of social work practice to incorporate factors including delivery of services via virtual means and more limited access for vulnerable clients. This article draws on the integration of two methods designed to address the research question: ‘How has social work practice in Australia and New Zealand been affected by COVID-19?’ These include (i) a narrative review of papers published during 2020 on social work practice and the COVID-19 pandemic and (ii) an online survey, undertaken from October to December 2020, of Australian and New Zealand social workers. The questionnaire data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and thematic analysis. The findings of this article details include the significant impacts of COVID-19 on practice, the increased needs of clients, including a rise in health issues, violence, homelessness and financial concerns, and the resulting critical changes to social work workloads. Social workers also reported greater use of technologies to deliver services and fears for their families and themselves if exposed to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Alston
- Correspondence to Professor Margaret Alston, Social Work, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia. E-mail:
| | - Kelly Irons
- Departments of Social Work, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Carole Adamson
- Departments of Social Work, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jenny Boddy
- Departments of Social Work, Griffith University, Australia
| | | | - Lynne Briggs
- Departments of Social Work, Griffith University, Australia
| | - Kathryn Hay
- Departments of Social Work, Massey University, New Zealand
| | - Amanda Howard
- Departments of Social Work, University of Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Wendy Foote
- Departments of Social Work, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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Ross AM, Lombardi B, Zerden LDS. Introduction to the special issue: Social work practice in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic - Challenges and innovations. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2021; 60:1-7. [PMID: 33588691 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2021.1890381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail M Ross
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brianna Lombardi
- School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lisa De Saxe Zerden
- MSW Education, School of Social Work, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Asakura K, Bogo M. Editorial: The Use of Simulation in Advancing Clinical Social Work Education and Practice. CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK JOURNAL 2021; 49:111-116. [PMID: 33994599 PMCID: PMC8106363 DOI: 10.1007/s10615-021-00810-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Asakura
- Carleton University School of Social Work, Ottawa, ON Canada
| | - Marion Bogo
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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Social Work during the COVID-19 Crisis: Responding to Urgent Social Needs. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12208595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Social work during the COVID-19 crisis has faced one of the most challenging times to cover urgent social needs in an uncertain scenario. This study analyzes the immediate responses in social work to vulnerable groups in the first 15 days of the pandemic in Barcelona, one of the most affected areas worldwide by COVID-19. The sample for this qualitative study includes 23 semi-structured interviews with social workers from different fields of intervention, from general approaches (primary care) to specific ones (health, ageing, homeless, and justice). The data analysis followed the communicative methodology, including transformative and exclusionary dimensions, and the analytical categories focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social services users, the organizational responses of social workers, and the impact of the interventions to cover urgent social needs of attendees. The interventions have been accompanied by an improvement in communication channels with vulnerable groups, ensuring an understanding of the situation of families and individuals, and covering the most urgent social needs. The study shows the key role of social workers from diverse social attention tools and their contribution to the sustainability of social services with a long-term impact.
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