Evaluative Analysis of Interview Essay -- Sociology, Social Workers

This essay is going to analyse and evaluate an interview between a service user (actor) and a social worker (myself) in regards to the use of communication skills and the theoretical framework that underpins those skills. Firstly, the essay is going to look into definitions of communication skills and secondly we will analyse the interview interaction and relevant communication theories. According to Trevithick (2005, p 116) ‘good communication skills, particularly listening and interviewing skills lie at the heart of social work practice’. Barker (2003, p83, cited in Trevithick 2005, p 116) defines communication as ‘the verbal and non verbal exchange of information, including all the ways in which knowledge is transmitted and received’. Moreover, the National Occupational Standards for Social Work (NOSSW, 2002) stipulate that communication skills are an essential requirement for social work practice / social workers. Wilson et al (2008, p297) further argue that effective communication is underpinned by fundamental skills such as ‘the ability to demonstrate empathy, respect and authenticity’. Looking at the above evidence, it could be argued that effective communication/ communication skills is an essential social work tool. This essay is now going to analyse relevant communication skills that were /could be used in the intervie w assessment/ exercise. Trevithick, (2005, p144-145) argue that interview preparation is essential in order to identify the needs and / or expectations of all parties involved. Prior to the interview I was given a scenario which described in detail the background of a service user, Michelle, and the issues that needed to be addressed. Michele’s girlfriend, Charlie had suffered a stroke and was recovering ... ...ace’. Egan (2010, p131) argues that empathic response can be very comforting when accompanied of body language which Egan (2010) refers to as ‘visibly tuning in’. Furthermore, Wilson et al (2008, p298) argue that in order to become emotionally attuned the interviewer should pay close attention to the service user’s verbal and body language. The final part of the interview focused on Egan’s second stage: ‘The preferred picture’. In this stage, the ‘counsellor helps clients to explore and chose possibilities for a better future’. Egan (2010, p75). It could be argued that due to time constraints we could not explore this stage in depth although we managed to identify and focus on one of Michelle’s main concern. Michelle said that she was worried about their future in terms of finances and how they would cope if Charlie was not able to go back to work in the future.