This study examines the significant experience of cross-pressure that is taking place within the practice of social workers, who are using Voksenudredningsmetoden (VUM) as a social work method in the Department of Adult and Disability in one of Denmark’s municipalities. The study discusses how and if social workers are being affected in their everyday practice, by the requirements politicians and leaders make due to legislation, compared to the professionalism social workers have, including their obligation they pursue in relation to citizens. In the beginning of this study was found, that the existing research, regarding cross-pressure is limited, which validates this study.
The experience of cross-pressure is examined through qualitative interviews and one questionnaire. The questionnaire is an aid to the interviews. The study has both an inductive and deductive approach. Inductive when working and analyzing with interviews, which means that the interviews are assisted by a theoretical perspective. Deductive when working and analyzing with the questionnaire, which derives from a theoretical perspective. The interviews and questionnaire are analyzed with Michael Lipsky’s and Dorte Caswell’s concepts about cross-pressure, Caswell’s concept of “praksislogikker” (logics of practice) and” handlingskompas” (compass of action) and Pierre Bourdieu’s analytical concept of doxa. The study has also used Lipsky’s concepts on worker bias and creaming for analysis. The results show, that cross-pressure can be minimized when working with VUM. One of the most significant parts of this study shows, how politics and economical decisions influence the practice of social work and its values. Another significant result shows, how internal communication between leaders and social workers is valued to be on the priority list for better teamwork and less cross-pressure.
Based on the conclusion made in this study, there were made some suggestions for future development regarding less cross-pressure when working with VUM. This can enhance the future relations between leaders and social workers and create a better understanding for a better cooperation on how to diminish cross-pressure in future social work.