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.
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.