Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
School
Social Work
Advisor
Diane Rullo
Abstract
First responder social workers are exposed to a stressful work environment, which puts them at risk for burnout. Burnout increases turnover rates, which negatively impacts both social workers and the clients they serve. The use of self-care practices mitigates the harmful effects of burnout. Because first responder social workers in southern California have an average turnover rate of 6 to 12 months after hire, this study explored southern California first responder social workers’ experiences with self-care practices. A basic qualitative design using semistructured interviews was applied through the purposeful sampling of eight first responder social workers. The study was grounded in Orem’s theory of self-care. The study highlighted that first responder social workers are aware and knowledgeable about self-care. First responder social workers experience numerous benefits, including burnout prevention, improved ability to manage stress, and increased work performance with the utilization of self-care practices. First responder social workers also face challenges with regularly utilizing self-care practices that result in impaired functioning. This study will positively inform social change as it identifies the challenges faced by first responder social workers in using self-care practices and offers possible solutions.
Recommended Citation
Wawrzonek, Justyna, "Exploring Social Workers and Self-Care" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14593.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14593
