The Use-of-Selves Interdependent Model: A Pedagogical Model for Reflective Practice

Use of self is an integral concept in social work practice. It is implicitly embedded throughout the Council for Social Work Education's Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards and the National Association of Social Workers' Code of Ethics. The present exploratory study developed a pedagogical model for use in social work education: use of selves interdependent model (USIM). Use-of-self essay assignments (N=17) in two sections of an MSW concentration-year integrative field seminar were used to further inform the model. Using constant comparative methods, the student essays were qualitatively analyzed and coded for USIM domains and elements. Exploratory study results suggested there is support for numerous domains and elements in the model.