Advancing Practice among Health Social Workers – How are Theories and Methods in Daily Work Discussed?

Karin Törnbom; Daniel Ståhl; Elisabet Sernbo

doi:10.1921/swssr20262618

Authors

Karin Törnbom Institution of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7593-2051
Daniel Ståhl Institution of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0771-2655
Elisabet Sernbo Institution of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2765-3856

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/swssr20262618

Keywords:

health social work, working methods, advancing practice

Abstract

Addressing psychosocial factors is essential in promoting health and supporting patients’ salutogenic development. Internationally, the theoretical and methodological foundations of social work in healthcare remain ambiguous. As Swedish Health Social Workers (HSWs) now receive specialist education, it is increasingly important to clarify the expectations placed on licensed HSWs. Focus group discussions explored how HSWs apply theories and methods in everyday practice. Participants highlighted the value of trust-building, active listening, and involving patients in defining goals. Greater consensus on working methods could strengthen professional identity, clarify roles, and ensure adequate, high-quality care while maintaining individualised approaches.

Author Biographies

Karin Törnbom, Institution of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg

Karin Törnbom is a Swedish social worker living in Gothenburg, Sweden. She currently works as a senior lecturer and social scientist at the University of Gothenburg. Her main research areas concern how to increase participation for vulnerable groups in society and psychosocial work in healthcare.

Daniel Ståhl, Institution of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg

Daniel Ståhl has a Ph.D. in social work and is a licensed healthcare counselor. He currently works at the Department of Social Work, University of Gothenburg. His main research areas concern health social work and disability.

Elisabet Sernbo, Institution of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg

Elisabet Sernbo is an associate senior lecturer at the Department of Social Work at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden. She is a licensed health-care counsellor, with a PhD in social work. Sernbo's research mainly focuses on knowledge, social work and health.

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