Implications of computer-mediated communication on professional counselling in social work practice: a case study of the youth in Hong Kong

Abstract

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) has become increasingly prevalent, especially amongst young people. In western countries, helping professions like social work and clinical psychology have gradually adopted this novel means of communication in their professional service to their clients. There are both merits and limitations in the application of CMC to professional working relationships. The author highlights the possible strengths of CMC in overcoming geographical distance, in facilitating client disclosure, and in eliminating social status differences. On the other hand, CMC is also handicapping in that it depletes non-verbal cues which are essential to professional counselling. The anonymity in CMC also induces fake information or even false identity, which may be found in both the client and the professional practitioner. Moreover, there are administrative, as well as professional implications in the process of adopting such an innovation. The author cautions the Hong Kong social service sector and the academics to prepare for such a new challenge of information technology, to better facilitate counselling for young people who are apt to engage in CMC.