Mind the gaps: understanding the rise and implications of different types of cynicism within statutory social work

This paper explores the notable rise of cynicism among state social workers in Britain. Theoretically, cynicism has been viewed as 'deviant emotion' and pathology or as offering a type of employee resistance that may protect or support a person's identity. Drawing upon case study research with practising social workers, the article looks at three different case examples of employee cynicism. These include the cynic as organisational survivor, disenfranchised sceptic or altruist. It was found that, although cynicism within social work predominately emerges as an emotional response to structural change, other factors such as those embodied within professional discourses and government or academic rhetoric can also impact. Other factors such as risk-averse assumptions that distance the practitioner from the 'service user' or colleagues can also have influence. Although often viewed negatively, cynicism can greatly benefit an organisation or motivate a practitioner to challenge normative principles and promote the needs of service users and carers.