Title

The Impact of Electronic Communication and Social Media on Child Welfare Practice

Department/School

Social Work

Date of this version

2015

Document Type

Article

Keywords

computer mediated communication, confidentiality and privacy of information, email, social media, social work practice, text messaging

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1080/15228835.2015.1101408

Abstract

One hundred and thirty-six child welfare workers completed an online survey examining their experiences regarding the impact that electronic communication and social media use has had on their practice with youth and families. Workers reported e-mail and text message use have made work with youth easier, yet distinct difficulties have emerged for practitioners in relation to electronic communication and social media use. New elements have also emerged including issues with harassment and the ethics related to monitoring clients' online activities. Comparisons with a previous study conducted by Finn indicate that the use of technology within social work practice has evolved over time. Implications for social work practice and future research are also discussed.

Volume

33

Issue

4

Published in

Journal of Technology in Human Services

Citation/Other Information

Breyette, S. K., & Hill, K. (2015). The Impact of Electronic Communication and Social Media on Child Welfare Practice. Journal of Technology in Human Services, 33(4), 283-303. https://doi.org/10.1080/15228835.2015.1101408

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