SOCIAL work plays a vital role in addressing social issues, promoting well-being, and supporting individuals, families and communities in need.
Traditionally, social work has been perceived as a field dominated by women, but men are increasingly entering the profession, challenging stereotypes, and making a significant impact in countries like Namibia.
In 1998, the European Commission and the Equal Opportunities Commission (CEO) called for increasing male employment in occupations where men are numerically under-represented, such as social work (Alastair, 1998). While the field has been dominated by women, both in academia and in practice, there is a growing recognition of the need for more men to enter the profession.
Consequently, this piece explores the experiences of men in social work in Namibia, shedding light on how they are breaking myths and creating positive change.
Although social work is still considered an emerging occupation in Namibia, it has evolved into a powerful tool in the battle for the poor and disadvantaged. In response to unmet welfare requirements, social work was started in Namibia in the 1950s (Ananias, Black, & Strydom, 2017, as cited in Chiwara & Lombard, 2017).
Social work was also embedded in an unjust social welfare system that exacerbated inequities by providing superior services to the white population (Devereux, 2001, as cited in Chiwara & Lombard, 2017). Social work is a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people.
Social workers are professionals who aim to enhance overall well-being and help meet the basic and complex needs of communities and people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and diversity are all central to the mission of social work, which is to promote social development and enhance the well-being of individuals, families and communities (International Federation of Social Workers, 2022).
Social workers work with many different populations and types of people, particularly focusing on the vulnerable, oppressed and people living in poverty.
Challenging gender stereotypes
Namibia, like many other societies, has long held traditional gender roles that associate caregiving and nurturing with women. Men entering the field of social work are challenging these stereotypes by demonstrating that compassion, empathy, and support are not limited by gender.
Their presence in the field serves as a powerful example of how gender roles can be redefined and diversified.
Men in social work bring unique perspectives to the profession, enriching the overall approach to solving social issues such as abject poverty, economic inequality, social injustice, domestic violence, food insecurity and unemployment rate amongst other social issues.
Their experiences, insights, and skills contribute to a more holistic understanding of complex problems and enable more effective interventions. By embracing a diversity of viewpoints, social work in Namibia becomes more dynamic and responsive to the needs of the population.
In some cases, male social workers find it easier to establish rapport and trust with certain individuals or communities, particularly where cultural norms or sensitivities may hinder communication with female social workers. This advantage allows for more open and productive conversations, leading to better outcomes for clients.
Men in social work serve as role models for young boys and men, showing that it is acceptable and honourable to pursue a career focused on helping others. By being visible and successful in their roles, they inspire the next generation to consider professions that may have been traditionally considered outside their gender norms.
Addressing masculinity constructs
The presence of men in social work contributes to redefining and broadening the concept of masculinity in Namibian society. By actively engaging in caregiving and support roles, male social workers challenge rigid notions of masculinity that may have contributed to harmful behaviours and attitudes. This shift can lead to healthier and more equitable relationships between men and women.
Male social workers can play a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges and needs faced by men in Namibia. They can create safe spaces for men to discuss their mental health, relationships, and other concerns that they may be hesitant to share with female professionals. This targeted approach can lead to more effective support systems and improved well-being for men.
Men in social work foster collaboration between genders, working alongside their female colleagues to provide a comprehensive and inclusive approach to social issues. This teamwork not only benefits clients but also promotes gender equality and cooperation within the profession.
In the final analysis, the presence of men in social work in Namibia challenges stereotypes, diversifies perspectives, and contributes to positive change within the field and society at large. By breaking myths and making an impact, male social workers are helping to create a more inclusive, empathetic, and effective social work landscape that benefits individuals, families, and communities across
Namibia.
*Ndifikepo Paulus and Munyungano Musisanyani are Social Work students at the University of Namibia in Windhoek. Both have an interest in social justice and the importance of human relationships.