BJSW Advance Access originally published online on October 31, 2005
British Journal of Social Work 2006 36(5):777-788; doi:10.1093/bjsw/bch323
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Self-reflection in Reflective Practice: A Note of Caution
Correspondence to Kam-shing Yip, Professor, Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong. E-mail: ssksyip{at}polyu.edu.hk
In reflective practice, social work students are encouraged to undergo self-reflection. It is a process of self-analysis, self-evaluation, self-dialogue and self-observation. Under appropriate conditions, social workers self-reflection can be very constructive, resulting in self-enhancement. However, under inappropriate conditions, social workers self-reflection in reflective practice can be destructive and create problems for their professional and self-development.
Keywords: Reflective social work practice, self-reflection, social work education