We can work on Body language

Body language is a form of nonverbal communication that accompanies speech. Common forms of body language are eye contact, posture, facial expression, and fine and gross movement. Social workers must understand how these seemingly simple, sometimes unconscious, body language responses may have a lasting effect by encouraging or discouraging a client. Body language with a negative connotation can create barriers and dissuade a client from establishing and developing the helping relationship. In contrast, when the social worker’s body language conveys interest and empathy, the client is more likely to feel comfortable and receptive to assistance.

Because nonverbal communication can hinder a successful client relationship, social workers need to understand the way in which they present themselves. This extends to what is presented via the environment, as well—social workers must also consider the interview room’s layout and the tone it conveys.

In this Discussion, you explore body language and the helping relationship by assessing a social work scenario.

watch the video Southside Community Services: Mrs. Bargas, Episode 2.

Identify one to two points you would change in each of the following aspects of the video scenario:
Seating arrangements of the social worker and client
Room design and decor
Body positions of the social worker and client
Explain why you would make these changes and how these changes might improve the interviewing process.
Describe the overall energy in the room and how the office design and social worker’s body language help to create this type of energy.

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Sample Answer

Seating arrangements of the social worker and client

In the video, the social worker and client are seated across from each other at a desk. This is a traditional seating arrangement for interviews, but it can also be seen as a barrier between the two people. I would change the seating arrangement to have the social worker and client seated side-by-side at a table or around a coffee table. This would create a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere, and it would also allow the social worker to make eye contact with the client more easily.

Room design and décor

The room in the video is quite sterile and impersonal. There are no pictures or decorations on the walls, and the furniture is all very functional. I would change the room design and décor to make it more warm and welcoming. I would add pictures of people and nature to the walls, and I would choose furniture that is more comfortable and inviting. I would also make sure that the room is well-lit and that the temperature is comfortable.

Full Answer Section

Body positions of the social worker and client

In the video, the social worker is sitting up straight and leaning forward slightly. This is a good posture to convey interest and engagement. However, the client is sitting slumped in her chair with her arms crossed. This body language suggests that she is closed off and defensive. I would encourage the client to sit up straight and open her arms to make her appear more open and receptive.

Overall energy in the room and how the office design and social worker’s body language help to create this type of energy

The overall energy in the room is quite tense and formal. The office design and the social worker’s body language both contribute to this energy. The sterile and impersonal room design creates a sense of distance between the social worker and client. The social worker’s sitting up straight and leaning forward slightly can also be seen as imposing and intimidating.

How the changes would improve the interviewing process

The changes I suggested would help to create a more relaxed and inviting environment for the interview. This would make the client more likely to feel comfortable and open up to the social worker. As a result, the social worker would be able to gather more information and build a better relationship with the client.

Conclusion

Body language is an important part of communication, and social workers need to be aware of how their body language is affecting the client. By paying attention to their seating arrangements, room design, and body positions, social workers can create a more positive and productive interviewing environment.

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