The contribution of codependency to leadership challenges in social work and mindfulness as a path forward

S. Colby Peters

Chapter 5 in Research Handbook on Leadership in Social Work and Social Care, 2025, pp 62-74 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Research shows that social work leadership challenges can be partially attributed to a lack of a strong, cohesive identity in the profession and issues related to discrimination and power, contributing to burnout, excessive turnover, and poor client outcomes. Research indicates that these challenges may result in significant part from codependency, a societal illness characterized by unhealthy thinking and behavior caused by lack of identity and low self-worth. Demonstrated to be effective in social work settings, mindfulness practice may offer a pathway out of codependency and associated leadership challenges. Based on a review of scientific research, a mindfulness leadership model is offered for potential application in social work organizational contexts to address burnout and codependency. Practical application of mindfulness is demonstrated with two case studies, in which participants use a tool to raise their awareness around codependent behaviors that may be preventing them from effectively addressing a specific organizational challenge.

Keywords: Social work; Leadership; Codependency; Mindfulness; Case study (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035314485
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