Analysis of Factors that Determine Success of Cooperation between the Social Worker and the Case Manager

Abstract

Objectives* The aim of this article is to reveal factors that determine success of the cooperation between the social worker and case manager Materials and Methods The research is based on the experiences of social workers and case managers. The problematic question: what determines success of cooperation between the social worker and case manager in their activities? The article presents results of qualitative research that reveal factors that influence successful cooperation between the social worker and the case manager. Results The data analysis of the conducted research, during which experiences of case managers related to their cooperation with social workers were analysed, revealed that successful is determined by: teamwork of the case manager and the social worker and the social worker’s contact with the client. The teamwork of the case manager and the social worker is associated with the support felt by the social worker from the case manager, where the focus is placed on their close cooperation and good contact between the two. At the same time, in terms of the contact of the social worker with the client, establishing a relationship with the client and respect for him are significant. Successful cooperation is determined by: the social worker’s personality traits, existing skills and his psychological well-being. Personality traits are traits that help the social worker to create and maintain a relationship with the client and remain professional in providing services. The second factor that determines success is the existing skills of the social worker, with communication, listening, observation skills and professional competencies being highlighted. The well-being of the social worker is the third factor that influences success in his work. Conclusions The psychological well-being of the social worker is affected by the positive inner attitude, the desire to help the client overcome difficulties, and a good relationship of the social worker with the manager.