Indicators of resilience in resilient South African designated social workers: professional perspectives

Abstract

South African designated social workers (DSWs), also known as child protection social workers (CPSWs) internationally, are placed at risk for suboptimal personal and professional functioning, given the demanding nature of their work. Consequently, there is worldwide agreement that social worker and particularly CPSW resilience should be explored. Empirical research about resilience processes in South African DSWs has, however, been neglected. Since resilience is culture- and context-specific, exploration of South African DSW resilience is necessitated. In order to explore their resilience, given the lack of informative literature, it is essential to recruit resilient South African DSWs. Drawing on a qualitative study, this manuscript theorises what resilience in resilient South African DSWs entails, as perceived by an advisory panel. These hypothesised indicators lay the groundwork for recruiting resilient South African DSWs to participate in continued empirical research to enhance understandings of their resilience, with cautious application to DSWs in similar contexts.