Question

Explain the relationship between spirituality, religion and social work practice

Answer 1

• Social workers work with different people coming from diverse backgrounds.Religion and spirituality is something which is followed by diverse groups in unique and different ways.When social workers work with such a diverse group of people having different religious and spiritual beliefs,it becomes important for them to educate themselves and make themselves competent enough to understand various religious and spiritual practices.
• Spirituality is an aspect of religious traditions which indicates a way of being and unfolding a purpose of life in a meaningful way.It refers to the belief that there is a power outside of one’s own self that transcends understanding.
• Religion is different from spirituality.It involves practices which a particular community follows and accepts and those traditions are maintained over time.Religion is actually a system of beliefs, values, rules for conduct, and rituals,which are unique to each group. It is a way a person’s spirituality is expressed.
• When social workers or even mental health professionals work with people coming from diverse groups,they have a responsibility to understand their spiritual and religious beliefs which might be guiding their thought process.It should not be ignored and should be understood emphathetically by the social workers,respecting one's values and beliefs.
• Some patients and clients are strongly guided by their spiritual beliefs and religious practices and not having an understanding of it by the social workers,could lead to confusion and insensitivity and being clouded by their own pre-conceived prejudices because of lack of awareness, in helping people.Competence is an essential requirement for social workers.