Advantages and disadvantages of using computer-based technology in social work

Advantages and disadvantages of using computer-based technology in social work

These days, computer-based technology like social media, smartphone apps, internet networks, etc (later referred to as technology or telecommunications) has a major impact on our lives. It affects all parts of it, from personal lives to a professional field. For social work, it is not an exception. Actually, it may have an even more significant impact on social work, than on some of the other professions. Social workers work with people and communicate a lot, while technology drastically has changed the communication sphere. Overall, there are both helpful and harmful sides to using telecommunications in social work and this essay will focus on disclosing both of them.

First and foremost, the areas which often get negatively affected by technology use in social work is "privacy, confidentiality, boundary-crossing and dual relationships" (J. Boddy; L. Dominelli; 2015). For example, many social workers receive Facebook friend requests from current and former clients. This type of intimate and unprofessional electronic contact between a professional and a client can lead to “boundary confusion” (F.G. Reamer; 2020). And often boundary confusion trigger boundary-crossing and forming of unprofessional, emotional, dual relationships with a client.

Furthermore, plenty of confidentiality and privacy issues occur while using technology in social work. For example, if a consultation is being held via phone call, the social worker cannot be fully sure, that nobody else is listening to the conversation. Moreover, clients’ postings on their social media may lead to “harmful disclosure of private and confidential details — for example, sensitive information shared by others in group therapy sessions" (F.G.Reamer; 2020).

On the other hand, using telecommunication in social work also has its advantages. It can make communication with the client more accessible and keep social workers updated on the news related to their profession. Furthermore, they can get seminars online, communicate with colleagues and share their knowledge with them. Moreover, some clinicians note that " the technology offers flexibility for both themselves and their clients" (S. Erreger; 2020). Face to face consultations are not always easily accessible, for instance, the client and social worker could be living in different places or a client could be physically disabled and online counselling would help them avoid "logistical challenges and discomfort involved in arranging transportation and travelling significant distances" (F.G.Reamer; 2020). Virtual counselling is also extremely beneficial right now, during a worldwide pandemic - Covid - 19.

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