Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: Intercultural communication is the process of communication between individuals or groups who come from different cultures. In an increasingly globalised world, intercultural communication is essential as it allows us to effectively and comprehensibly transmit information, ideas, and values between different cultures. This study aims to analyse and evaluate how intercultural communication influences the performance and outcomes of social workers from the perspective of social workers. Theoretical Framework: Social workers play a crucial role in assisting clients with personal, family, and community issues, ensuring appropriate social functioning and meeting needs. Effective communication with the client and their immediate environment is a cornerstone of social work practice, as it is a key component of problem-solving and functioning. Therefore, social workers must strive to be proficient communicators. Method: The study was conducted using a qualitative research approach. Qualitative content analysis analyses written texts, particularly those in the human and health sciences. The overall objective of content analysis is to describe the similarities and differences in the text's content. Results and Discussion: To focus on the social worker implementation and interpretation perspective of intercultural communication and paying more attention to others. The implementation and interpretation of intercultural communication among social workers in Albania are of great importance, as there has been an increase in the number of asylum seekers in recent years. Social workers must develop cultural competence to engage with clients from different cultural backgrounds effectively. Research Implications: Utilize a qualitative research approach for gathering data. Conduct in-depth interviews with social workers to understand their experiences, challenges, and insights regarding intercultural communication in the field of social work. Originality/Value: The originality of this study lies in its specific focus on the implementation and importance of intercultural communication among social workers in Albania. While the general concept of intercultural communication in social work has been explored globally, examining it within the Albanian context provides unique insights. This is particularly relevant given the recent increase in asylum seekers and returning emigrants in Albania, which poses specific challenges and opportunities for social workers.
Authors: Eris Dhamo, Jonela Canaj
Institution: University of Tirana
Language: English
Subfield: Public Administration
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Reduced inequalities
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4404619344