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Social Workers Being Social Workers: Adapting to the Changing Work Style During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Kranke DA, Milligan S, Der-Martirosian C, Solorzano E, Dobalian A. Social Workers Being Social Workers: Adapting to the Changing Work Style During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Journal of social service research. 2024 Jan 7; DOI: 10.1080/01488376.2023.2299273.

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Abstract:

Connecting emotionally with peers is a priority among social workers. Peer support helps social workers manage the emotional overload from the nature of the work, while reducing feelings of burnout. The delivery of social services has been altered by the lingering effects of the pandemic, particularly with regard to the changing work environment. Therefore, this study seeks to assess factors that impacted feelings of connecting emotionally among VA outpatient social workers during the pandemic. Authors conducted a secondary data analysis of (N = 13) VA outpatient social workers from one facility in the southwest region of the US. Inductive thematic analysis revealed the sample of VA outpatient social workers noticed emotional disconnectedness to their peers because of physical distancing and turnover. Participants recommended the following actions to curtail the impact of emotional disconnectedness: (1) connecting virtually with other social workers; (2) connecting in-person with other providers; (3) context for discussing sensitive issues; (4) addressing emotions individually; and (5) communication with leadership. Future research should assess how the findings impact social workers' ability to overcome disconnectedness with colleagues while being able to maintain empathy and compassion for clients receiving the social services they provide.




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