The supervisory relationship of Chinese social workers in Hong Kong

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the supervisory relationship of social workers in the Chinese cultural context of Hong Kong. Seven focus group sessions and 40 in-depth interviews were conducted. It was found that the supervisory relationship in Hong Kong is a complicated mix of hierarchical, collegial, and familial relationships. The supervisor-supervisee relationship is not only organizational and professional but also cultural and personal. Supervisors view the supervisory relationship from a practical viewpoint but supervisees have a greater emotional investment. In Chinese culture, qing, yuan, and face enhance mutual tolerance, acceptance, and respect. The reciprocity of interpersonal relationships is the basis of the supervisory relationship of Chinese social workers in Hong Kong. Cultural sensitivity is not only crucial to cross-cultural supervision but also essential to effective supervisory practice in various societies.