Social Work as a Profession

5 Elements Constituting the Distinguishing Attributes of a Profession:

1. Systematic Body of Theory 

The skills that characterize a profession flow from and are supported by a fund of knowledge that has been organized into an internally consistent system called a body of theory. Theory serves as a base in terms of which the professional rationalizes his operations in concrete situations. Acquisition of the professional skill requires a prior or simultaneous master of theory underlying the skill. because understanding of theory is so important to professional skill, preparation for a profession must be an intellectual as well as a practical experience.

2. Professional Authority

Extensive education in the systematic theory of her discipline provides the professional with a type of knowledge which the layman does not have. In the helping relationship, the professional's judgment and authority are respected and accepted by his "client", unlike in a transaction with a non-professional where the rule is "the customer is always right". This authority ascribed to the professional by reason of her educational background gives the client a sense of security that the professional has the capacity to help him  with his problem. 

3. Community Sanction

Recognition of professional authority is expressed not only in the client-professional relationship but also in the professional-community relationship. The community sanctions a profession's authority by way of giving it certain powers and privileges. Among these powers and privileges are the professional's control over its (a) training centers, (b) admission into the profession, and (c) standards for professional performance.

4. Regulative Code  of Ethics

Every profession has a built in regulative code, partly formal and partly informal, which compels ethical behavior on the part of its members. This code serves to check possible abuses which can arise out of a profession's exercise of authority, and its accompanying powers and privileges.

5. Professional Culture

Formal and informal groupings characterize all occupations, including the professions. For social work, the network of formal and informal groups within which it operates includes the organizations that benefit from a profession's services (schools, courts, social agency, hospitals); the educational institutions which produce and replenish professional manpower; and the professional association which promotes professional interests and aims. The culture of  a profession consists of its values, norms and symbols.

Reference:
Lee-Mendoza, T. (2008) Social Welfare and Social Work. Central Book Supply