An Analysis of the Use and Policies Regarding Social Media Use as a Work Tool in Public Rehabilitation

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article was to gather descriptive data on the professional use of social media in public rehabilitation settings and to analyze existing social media policies in those agencies through content analysis.Methods: The authors sent a survey to all state administrators or directors of these agencies (N = 50) in the United States, requesting frequency and other descriptive information, plus a copy of their social media policies (if available). The available policies were reviewed using content analysis procedures.Results: The results showed that although the frequency of social media use was high, training and inclusion of ethics was low. Regarding policy, approximately 42% reported a lack of an existing policy, and 38% were unsure about having a policy guide. The analysis of the available policies yielded 11 themes around which these policies were organized.Discussion: The authors offer a discussion of these results and its implications for policy and practice as well as future research. These include the need for more comprehensive social media policy creation in agencies and the role of clinical supervisors in ensuring ethical practice.

Vocational Rehabilitation Agency Guidance on Social Media Use: A Policy Analysis

“…Through open coding of 22 policies and one guideline, we identified seven themes and 25 subthemes, which mapped onto recommended social media policy elements from the research (Garcia et al, 2016; Hrdinova et al, 2010; Pham, 2014). Only two policies, however, covered themes in a comprehensive way, and only one policy acknowledged social media as a tool for consumer job search.…”

“…Garcia and colleagues (2016) highlighted the absence of ethical guidelines for direct communication with consumers within current VR social media policies. Similar issues might apply for counselor assistance with consumer social media competencies.…”

“…Lack of supporting or clarifying policies and procedures makes it difficult for staff to confidently use social media within a counseling context, particularly where issues of confidentiality and ethics are concerned (Bontke & Lawler, 2012; Ipsen et al, 2013; Lehmann & Crimando, 2011). The diversity of uses, ever-evolving nature of social media platforms, and limited ethical guidance to keep pace with these changes can leave VR professionals unprepared to use social media in VR practice (Garcia et al, 2016; Lehmann & Crimando, 2011). Adding to this confusion has been limited guidance for social media use by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) Code of Ethics (Hartley, Tarvydas, & Johnston, 2015).…”

“…They also rely on social networks for communicating with friends, accessing information, or planning events (Pham, 2014). To reach and engage this group, VR counselors need to embrace evolving communication strategies, and VR agencies must have effective policies in place to minimize ethical and confidentiality concerns (Garcia et al, 2016).…”

“…Garcia and colleagues (2016) conducted a small study of VR policies ( n = 5) and State Department policies ( n = 8) related to professional use of social media in a rehabilitation setting. They identified 11 policy themes including account creation procedures, confidentiality, enforcement, definitions, disclaimers, existing policies, oversight, appropriate use, purpose, reach, and accessibility for people with disabilities.…”