Lessons Learned from a Secret Facebook Support Group

The National Association of Social Workers developed practice standards for social workers using technology in their practice. These standards were derived from the foundation of the social work code of ethics and are helpful as social workers explore the use of new tools for the benefit of their cl...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Health & social work 2015-05, Vol.40 (2), p.125-133
Main Authors: Oliver, Debra Parker, Washington, Karla, Wittenberg-Lyles, Elaine, Gage, Ashley, Mooney, Megan, Demiris, George
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Caregivers
Codes of Conduct
Female
Hospices
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Professional ethics
Secrecy
Self Help Groups
Social Groups
Social Media
Social networks
Social support
Social Work
Social Workers
Support groups
Technology
Technology adoption
Treatment Outcomes
Young Adult
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Summary:The National Association of Social Workers developed practice standards for social workers using technology in their practice. These standards were derived from the foundation of the social work code of ethics and are helpful as social workers explore the use of new tools for the benefit of their clients. Hospice caregivers, both active and bereaved, are in great need of support but are often unable to attend traditional support groups. Facebook secret groups offer social workers a potential tool, given the geographic barriers that exist for traditional face-to-face support groups. The authors' experience with a secret Facebook group indicates that the technology can be useful when managed by a social worker facilitator. As social workers continue to explore helpful ways to use technology with clients, it is critical that they evaluate that practice and assess the clinical outcomes to establish an evidence base behind this practice.
ISSN:0360-7283
1545-6854
DOI:10.1093/hsw/hlv007