Actualizing Compassion in Social Work Practice: A Thematic Network Analysis

Scholarship has suggested that compassion is the foundation of quality social work practice. However, research exploring specific ways in which social workers utilize compassion is limited. Therefore, this qualitative study examined how social workers actualize compassion in practice. Semi-structured interviews were completed with 12 social workers. Thematic network analysis was used to examine the data. Results included a thematic network that demonstrates how social workers actualize compassion in social work practice. The analysis identified three organizing, eight basic themes. Lastly, one global theme was generated and reflects the relationships between three organizing and eight basic themes. The global theme described that “social workers embody compassion through interconnected internal experiences and outward expressions.” Results highlight the dynamic nature of compassion as both an internal (cognitive) mindset and a series of external (behavioral) actions in social work. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the nuanced ways in which compassion is integrated into professional practice and provide a framework for enhancing compassionate approaches in social work education and training.