BSW2602
Assignment 2
Semester 1
Due 21 July 2025
,BSW2602
Assignment 2
Semester 1
Due 21 July 2025
Question 1.1: Identify and Explain Five (5) Functions and Responsibilities of
Social Workers in the Field of Occupational Social Work (10)
Occupational social work integrates social work principles into workplace environments
to enhance employee well-being and organizational health.
Employee Assistance and Support
Social workers provide counseling to employees facing stress, substance abuse, or
family issues, improving productivity and morale (Engelbrecht, 2014). This function rests
on the assumption that individual well-being drives organizational success, a stance
rooted in humanistic philosophy. Tensions emerge when confidentiality clashes with
employer demands, challenging ethical boundaries. Long-term, this role cultivates trust
but requires overcoming stigma to maximize impact.
Crisis Intervention
Social workers address workplace crises—accidents, layoffs, or violence—through
trauma debriefing and psychological support to ensure stability (Tshabalala & Patel,
2019). The underlying premise is that timely intervention mitigates harm, yet cultural
competence remains essential for diverse workforces. A critical tension arises between
immediate response and sustained care, with broader implications for organizational
resilience if follow-up falters.
, Policy Development and Advocacy
Social workers shape policies on mental health and advocate for employee rights,
challenging the notion that organizations prioritize welfare (Department of Social
Development, 2016). This assumes advocacy transforms culture, yet resistance from
profit-driven entities creates friction. Over time, successful policy shifts could redefine
workplace equity, necessitating strategic influence.
Workplace Wellness Programmes
Social workers design programs like stress management workshops to promote health
and reduce costs (Lombard, 2016). The assumption of measurable benefits underpins
this role, though relevance to diverse employees poses a challenge. Long-term success
hinges on inclusivity, with implications for organizational loyalty if programs fail to
engage all staff.
Conflict Mediation and Organizational Change Support
Social workers mediate disputes and support transitions like mergers to enhance
cohesion (Weyers, 2011). Neutrality is assumed to foster resolution, but power
imbalances complicate impartiality. The broader consequence is stronger workplace
harmony, provided mediators navigate cultural dynamics adeptly.
Assignment 2
Semester 1
Due 21 July 2025
,BSW2602
Assignment 2
Semester 1
Due 21 July 2025
Question 1.1: Identify and Explain Five (5) Functions and Responsibilities of
Social Workers in the Field of Occupational Social Work (10)
Occupational social work integrates social work principles into workplace environments
to enhance employee well-being and organizational health.
Employee Assistance and Support
Social workers provide counseling to employees facing stress, substance abuse, or
family issues, improving productivity and morale (Engelbrecht, 2014). This function rests
on the assumption that individual well-being drives organizational success, a stance
rooted in humanistic philosophy. Tensions emerge when confidentiality clashes with
employer demands, challenging ethical boundaries. Long-term, this role cultivates trust
but requires overcoming stigma to maximize impact.
Crisis Intervention
Social workers address workplace crises—accidents, layoffs, or violence—through
trauma debriefing and psychological support to ensure stability (Tshabalala & Patel,
2019). The underlying premise is that timely intervention mitigates harm, yet cultural
competence remains essential for diverse workforces. A critical tension arises between
immediate response and sustained care, with broader implications for organizational
resilience if follow-up falters.
, Policy Development and Advocacy
Social workers shape policies on mental health and advocate for employee rights,
challenging the notion that organizations prioritize welfare (Department of Social
Development, 2016). This assumes advocacy transforms culture, yet resistance from
profit-driven entities creates friction. Over time, successful policy shifts could redefine
workplace equity, necessitating strategic influence.
Workplace Wellness Programmes
Social workers design programs like stress management workshops to promote health
and reduce costs (Lombard, 2016). The assumption of measurable benefits underpins
this role, though relevance to diverse employees poses a challenge. Long-term success
hinges on inclusivity, with implications for organizational loyalty if programs fail to
engage all staff.
Conflict Mediation and Organizational Change Support
Social workers mediate disputes and support transitions like mergers to enhance
cohesion (Weyers, 2011). Neutrality is assumed to foster resolution, but power
imbalances complicate impartiality. The broader consequence is stronger workplace
harmony, provided mediators navigate cultural dynamics adeptly.
