Social Workers on Child Protection, in Conflict with Community Norms and Values : A Case Study of a Community Based-Organisation in Malawi

Abstract: The study focused on highlighting challenges faced by social workers in child protection, the similarities, and differences in child protection values between the two parties and how social workers are perceived. This was with the problem that social workers face difficulties or clashes with the local community and specifically on cultural and traditional elements, although some surprising factors emerged as the study progressed. The study was qualitative with purposive sampling and used individual interviews for social workers and group interviews for community members in data collection. In general, the study involved both deductive and inductive approaches of research. In terms of specific qualitative data analysis, it involved phenomenology. Theories used in the study are the systems theory, utilitarianism, cultural universalism, and relativism. The findings indicated that social workers face challenges including Lack of Adequate Resources; differences of how families raise children; blame on the Social Worker; priority  differences between culture, tradition and social work; spiritual and religious beliefs as a barrier; children and/or parents/guardians do not report due to shame and clients complained about procedures by social workers. It concluded that the major problem was the manner of approach and interaction between the community and social worker and that if the social workers follow cultural procedures and include community members more with the aid of adequate resources in some areas. In such, social work practice could be made better and this could pave a way for new related studies.