MAINTAINING PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES: THE ROLE OF HARD AND SOFT SKILLS IN SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE

• DOI: 10.37572/EdArt_3107241858

• Palavras-chave: professional relationship, social worker, client, hard skills, soft skills

• Keywords: professional relationship, social worker, client, hard skills, soft skills

• Abstract: Maintaining professional boundaries is essential to the effective practice of the social work profession. However, to practice the profession effectively, the social worker must know the complex and soft skills necessary to successfully set and maintain these boundaries. Through a combination of theoretical foundations and empirical research findings, the chapter provides practical examples and strategies that social workers can use in various work contexts. The research includes semi-structured interviews with ten professionals working in homes for the elderly and shelters. Data analysis presents how these professionals balance necessary knowledge and technical skills (hard skills) and empathy, communication, and listening skills (soft skills) in establishing and maintaining client relationships. Finally, a discussion presents the possible consequences of crossing professional boundaries. It provides recommendations for educating and training social workers to enhance their ability to work effectively with clients and maintain professional distance.