From Tenuous to Tenacious: Social Justice Practice in Child Welfare

ABSTRACTThis qualitative study explores the relationship between social workers’ understanding of their professional obligation to work for social justice and their practice as child welfare workers. Twenty-five social workers with at least six months front line child welfare experience, from two Canadian provinces, were interviewed. Findings suggest that experienced workers were best able to link their understanding of social justice with their practice. In contrast novice workers, preoccupied with understanding and adhering to policy and procedures, were less able. Implications are discussed and suggestions made for better supporting new workers in aligning child welfare practice with social work’s social justice mission.