Publications from ODSW Social Work Supervsion | Page 13

Day 1 Keynote 1: Features, Nature and Culture of Social Work Supervision

The four corners of the 2-D square at the top of the cube represent the four parties
involved in social work supervision:
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The client: different clients have different kinds of needs and problems. The aim
of social work supervision is ultimately to help solve or stabilize the client’s
problem.
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The supervisee (frontline social worker): Different supervisees have different
satisfaction levels and needs.
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The supervisor: different supervisors have different roles, styles and skills (both
professional and social skills).
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The agency: Every organization has their own goal, structure and policies.
The four lines joining the 2-D square at the top of the cube represent the relationship
between the parties.
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Between the client and the worker, there is a worker-client relationship.
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Between the supervisor and the supervisee, there is the supervisor-supervisee
relationship which consists a supervision contract, the agreed format of
supervision and the developmental stage of each party. First, the supervisory
contract and format of supervision have to be decided upon. However, Asian
countries often do not make use of written contracts. Prof. Tsui therefore
suggested that a verbal contract or agreement is reached instead. He
emphasized that there should be no silent contract. Secondly, he raised the
issue of age, and indicated that some difficulties may arise if the supervisor is
supervising an older supervisee. Thirdly, it may also be challenging if the
supervisor and supervisee are of different genders. Lastly, differing political
ideologies, cultures and races may pose a challenge in the supervision process.
The supervisor therefore has to be culturally competent and sensitive so as to
navigate the challenges that may arise.
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Between the supervisor and agency, there are policies and regulations that
guide the supervisor-agency relationship.
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Lastly, the relationship between the agency and the client is one of a supplier
and a consumer. The agency has to be accountable to the client.
Principles of Social Work Supervision
Prof. Tsui raised several principles of supervision in social work.
1. Interpersonal transaction and transformation
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Transaction represents an exchange
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Transformation is a type of growth that involves reflection and changes.
Changes are difficult but valuable
2. Organizational objectives
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Not personal objectives
3. Use of authority, exchange of information and expression of feelings
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There is a power hierarchy (supervisor then supervisee)
4. Professional values of social work
5. Monitors job performance, conveys values, knowledge & skills, and provides
emotional support
6. Staff satisfaction with supervision, job accomplishment & client outcomes
7. Parties involved: supervisee, supervisor, agency & client
8. Professional & personal practice in cultural context
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Supervision is not only a professional or organizational practice, it is also a
personal and cultural practice.
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