E-Social work: building a new field of specialization in social work?

Abstract

ABSTRACTNew technologies have transformed the nature and practice of social work. A wider range of available digital procedures has opened up a broader dimension regarding research, therapies, interventions and social networks in the field. Using meta-analysis methods, this article reviews the current situation of the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in social work. A search of the literature reveals 70 articles using different methodological approaches over the period 2006–2016. The descriptors for the search were ICTs, information systems, technological systems, social work and e-social work. The main findings are that most studies on ICTs and social work focus on the impact, potential and specific uses of technologies in different aspects of social work, the ethical issues involved and the special attention that should be given to social workers’ educational programmes. This scenario is a changing reality that must be taken into account: it is an irrefutable fact that new technologies are affecting social work and will be reflected by researchers and practitioners who should address and deal with these new trends in social work. The results allow us to identify four key recommendations to assist social workers in successfully adopting and implementing ICTs in their daily practice.