critical reflexivity, social work, families, critical action learning, educational process

In a postmodern society, where key institutions such as the family are failing, assistance in the form of social work is particularly important, especially for excluded families with children. The heterogeneity of families and society as a whole is increasing and that reality accompanies the problems and issues that social workers encounter. The rising complexity of problematic situations requires new knowledge and competency on the part of professionals. With the emphasis of the above, we carried out research on the critical reflexivity of field social workers who are working with families. The research aimed to map and analyze the critical reflexivity and its areas in field social workers. In the research, we viewed knowledge in social work as the interconnection of the theoretical ("know what") and practical level ("know how"). The research was based on a qualitative research strategy; this took the form of Critical Action Learning, and was built on a relationship-based model. The research methods included a combination of in-depth interviews, "photo voice" and focus groups. Social workers from three different organisations participated in the research. The research findings have shown that the critical reflexivity of social workers is associated with several areas, in particular with professionalism, an empowering approach to clients, and self-assurance in the social worker’s role. Based on research, recommendations are given to facilitate the educational process of social workers.