Adventures in re-searching the features of social work supervision in Hong Kong

Abstract

The study examines the features and process of social work supervision in Hong Kong. A successful client outcome is the main objective, but supervisors perceive supervision as a rational and systematic process, whereas supervisees expect emotional support and teamwork. The supervisory relationship is both personal and professional. Tension is reduced by the traditional Chinese cultural values of reciprocity: <i>qing</i>, <i>yuan</i>, and 'face'. The strategy of using supervisory authority is 'consensus by consultation and consent' — which reduces conflict and gains acceptance. The journey of this study charts the interactions among my personal, professional, and academic identities. In order to conduct the research, I have to be more 'academic'. However, without my professional experience, I could not interpret the information in a meaningful manner. When I reviewed the data on the effects of traditional Chinese values, my personal self was reminded that I am also Chinese and that I share these beliefs.