The Governmental Welfare System and Social Workers Involvement in Social Activism

Purpose and Background: In the summer of 2011, Israeli citizens participated in a widespread social protest, aimed to influence social and economic priorities and bring about changes in areas such as education, health,... [ view full abstract ]

Purpose and Background: In the summer of 2011, Israeli citizens participated in a widespread social protest, aimed to influence social and economic priorities and bring about changes in areas such as education, health, housing, and welfare. The present qualitative study examined the experiences of social workers who participated in the protest.
Method: Research data were collected through a focus group interview. The sample consisted of 11 social workers (9 women, and 2 men). Six of the participants were community workers. Two were caseworkers. Three defined themselves as both caseworkers and community workers. The number of years in the present workplace ranged from one to 20 years (M = 6 years), and the number of years of professional experience ranged from one to 40 years (M = 11 years). Data analysis was carried out in three stages: Open coding, Axial coding and integrating the data for main themes (Strauss & Corbin, 1998).
Results: The findings highlight the complexities experienced by social workers who
protested against the system that employs them through three primary themes.
First, the participants chose to participate in the protest as volunteers and to
hide their professional identity. Second, the social workers had difficulty
receiving approval from their superiors to join the protesters' encampments.
Third, the social workers felt that they were used by the system.
Applications: Research findings reveal the gap that exists between the profession's
stated commitment to social change and the degree to which such action is
actually supported by professional bodies. Findings contribute to the discourse
regarding the extent of legitimacy that the local and national welfare system gives to social workers who participate in social protests.