Knowing What's Best: A New Look at Self-Determination

Abstract

Rationalistic and legalistic influences have diminished the power of self-determination as a guiding principle of social work practice. The authors discuss an approach that places the client's own knowledge of self at the center of social work practice.

Toward the Psychosocial Empowerment of Women

“…Social work scholars and practitioners continue to grapple with the meaning and implications of self-determination as a cardinal value and principle of practice (Hutchinson, 1987;Levy,1983;Rooney,1988;Weick & Pope, 1988). They rightfully inform practitioners of the authority and power inherent in professional roles and attempt to provide practice guidelines that will protect clients from the abuse of professional power (McDermott, 1975;Reamer, 1983).…”

Intervening for Success

“…Weick and Pope (1988) have noted that professionals often distrust notions of selfdirectedness, preferring instead their own judgments as more valid. However, social workers are often caught on the horns of a dilemma.…”

Abused Women in New Mexican Shelters: Factors That Influence Independence on Discharge

“…Most of the numerous directives for practice with abused women have identified social workers' roles as the providers of information on resources, particularly practical resources, and support and encouragement that will allow abused women to live independently from their abusers. These roles imply that abused women should be helped to make conscious choices about their living situations (Davis & Srinivasan, 1995;Mills, 1996;Weick & Pope, 1988). Such directives are predicated on the concept of empowerment and indicate that social workers must guard against pressuring abused women to leave their abusive relationships, but rather, should work to empower them so they can make the decision to leave.…”