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