The influence of trust and job satisfaction on structural empowerment and social work competency

Abstract

This study examines the interrelationships among trust, job satisfaction, structural empowerment, and social work competency within the Malaysian Department of Social Welfare (JKM). Drawing on data collected from 407 social workers, the research investigates how trust and job satisfaction influence the four dimensions of structural empowerment: opportunity, information, support, and resources. The findings reveal that trust and job satisfaction play critical roles in enhancing access to these empowerment dimensions, which directly impact the competency levels of social workers. Specifically, social workers with higher trust in their organizations and greater job satisfaction report improved access to critical resources and support systems, leading to better professional knowledge, skills, values, and ethics. The study highlights the necessity of implementing welfare policies that promote trust-building, enhance job satisfaction, and provide robust structural support to empower social workers effectively. These insights offer practical recommendations for strengthening the social work framework, ensuring more competent and resilient practitioners capable of addressing community needs effectively. By prioritizing these factors, policymakers and administrators can create an environment conducive to optimal social work outcomes and sustainable community development. This research contributes to the understanding of empowerment dynamics and their critical implications for professional social work practice.