An exploratory study of social work supervisors' supervisory styles, motivations, and evaluative processes

Abstract

While many factors influence the quality of social work supervision, the purpose of this qualitative study was to explore social work supervisors’ supervisory styles, motivations, and evaluative processes and its impact on the social work profession. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from 10 Board Approved Clinical Supervisors (BACSs) during a one-time session in which a questionnaire on supervisory styles was administered and an interview covering supervisory styles, motivations, and evaluative processes was conducted. This project was undertaken to better understand some of the perceptions, values, beliefs, and problems involved in the supervisory process and its impact on the profession. Major findings indicated some social workers were motivated by altruistic factors to obtain their BACS credential whereas others were motivated by prestige and self-interest. Results from the SSI-S indicated that, as a group, the participants tended to embody attractive supervisory styles more so than interpersonally sensitive or task-oriented. Also, many BACS reported having to adapt their preferred supervisory style to comply with agency requirements and/or the requirements of the Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners (LABSWE).