Abstract
Natural and human-made disasters are increasing in frequency and impact; therefore, effective disaster interventions are necessary. Social workers are second-tier responders who need to support others and care for themselves. This study aims to identify social work interventions in times of disaster and to explore the knowledge and skills needed by social work practitioners. Qualitative research was implemented through semi-structured interviews with 20 participants of social work practitioners in the Ministry of Social Development and NGOs. Access to the sample was obtained through a purposive sample. The data were analysed following thematic analysis using NVivo. Based on respondents’ interviews and related literature, disasters are complex situations that require holistic interventions that involve and empower affected people. These interventions require understanding the interactions between social, cultural, political and economic systems and different professions and organisations. Essential skills, such as critical and reflective practice and good communication skills have been addressed.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Human Impacts and Responsibility
KEYWORDS
SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE, NATURAL DISASTERS, OMAN
