| Summary: | The overall objective of this study is to assess the assertive behaviour of social workers. The dissertation consists of five sections.
Section A refers to the problem statement, research objectives and procedures that were followed. Furthermore the limitations of the research report were discussed, definitions of key terms given and the framework of the research report given. The problem statement can be condensed as follows:
Social workers are assertive in relation to their client management, but not in relation to their personal needs which are affected within their profession. This can lead to burnout/stress in the social work profession.
The problem statement leads to two research aims. "Developmental Research and Utilization"-model (DR&U-model) was used as well as the research model. Literature studies were conducted on the themes of assertive behaviour, burnout and stress.
Section B consists of two articles that form the report about research outcomes. Each article is treated as a self-contained entity, which focuses on specific research aims undertaken based on unique research methods. The two articles are:
Article 1: The nature of assertive behaviour
The aim of this article is to assess the nature and extent of assertive behaviour. Assertive
behaviour is defined and common concepts identified by means of a literature overview.
Attention is further given to the nature of burnout as well as the correlation between burnout and
assertive behaviour. The influence of assertive behaviour is divided into the psychological
influence, physical influence and social influence as well as occupational influence. Several
factors influence assertive behaviour. In this regard self-image, norms and values, verbal and non-verbal communication are discussed. Lastly the focus is placed on the importance and role of assertive behaviour in the social work profession.
Article 2: Assertive behaviour of social workers
The aim of this article is to assess the nature of assertive behaviour in social workers. Attention is given to social workers' assertive behaviour in general and also individually in relation to their clients, colleagues, supervisor, other professionals and the community. Attention is also given to the extent of burnout social workers are experiencing and the relationship between feelings of burnout and assertive behaviour of social workers.
Two self developed questionnaires were distributed to and completed by social workers in the North-West province as measuring instruments which evaluated their assertive behaviour as well as the extent of burnout and job stress these social workers experienced in their different occupational fields.
In section C a summary is provided of the most important findings and conclusions of the entire research project. Further recommendations are discussed.
Section D consists of the appendices to the research report
Section E contains the compound list of sources. === Thesis (M.A. (MW))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2008.
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