Social work - client relationship practice: exploring social worker perspectives

This thesis explores, using qualitative methodology, the significance of social worker – client relationships for achieving client outcomes in the field of child and family welfare. The study found that social worker – client relationships are critical for achieving outcomes. It is a distinct practice method, informed by relational views about ‘the self’, human development and healing. The social worker, as Relationship Building Agent, is heavily focused on client engagement and building the Relationship Workspace. These findings are represented in the approach Social Work Relationship Praxis. Implications for social work practice, education and research include recommended elevation of relational perspectives.