The 'Self' and 'Use of Self' in social work: A contribution to the development of a coherent theoretical framework

Abstract

This paper explores the 'use of self' in social work and what is meant when referring to the concept of a 'self'. It begins by looking at infant psychological development and theories that attempt to explain how, as human beings, our unique self is formed and what factors play a part in this process. It considers whether experiences in infancy later shape who we are as people and professionals, and how we might come across to others. This first focus, which reflects a Western/Eurocentric perspective, explores three themes: The core, multiple, authentic, private, public, true and false features of the self; Bowlby's concept of 'internal working models'; and feminist writing on the gendered characteristics of the self. The paper then looks at coverage of the term use of self in selected social work publications, some of which point to the absence of a coherent theoretical framework from which to teach, research and apply this subject in direct practice. It explores how this gap could be bridged by developing a conceptual framework that links the term use of self to the concept of internal working models; a gendered perspective; theories relating to non-verbal forms of communication; and the importance of self-awareness.