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Write a Critical Reflection Essay about Your Positionality and Experience of Privilege, and Oppression

Ranjana Patwal
Masters of Social Work Qualifying, ACAP
SWSP 6013: Social Work Theory and Practice (Critical Theories and Skills)
Angelique Odyssea
March 1, 2024
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Critical theory is an introspective endeavour that seeks to construct stable knowledge, cultivate capacities for action and reflexivity, and

discern and evaluate intricate arguments (Moon, 2016). Critical reflection and reflective practices have grown greatly in recent years, promoting

clear and thoughtful analysis (Theobald et al., 2017). I've always been curious about the oppressions and privileges in society, including my own,

and I'll go into greater depth about this as the essay expands. Experiencing injustice and privilege on my own could provide me an advantage

when practicing as a social worker. This essay will look at the significance of critical reflection and how social workers could derive value from

it. Finally, and most significantly, I will address the intersectionality of how an individual may be both oppressed and privileged.

Critical reflection entails the recognition of entrenched presumptions, albeit with the principal intention of effecting enhancements in

professional conduct (Fook & Askeland, 2007). In addition, self-reflection strengthens social identification when the decisions made hold

personal significance, thus constituting a critical stage in the process of associating conduct with in-group identification and, consequently, self-

concept (Dishon et al., 2017). Self-reflection is a significant factor in the formation of one's self-concept, as it enables the derivation of

numerous conclusions regarding one's behaviours and experiences. Reflective practice is vital in social work currently, and the phenomenon of

critical reflection is widely used and acknowledged as a transformative concept (Mezirow 1997 & Thompson 2009, as cited in Karvinen-

Niinikoski, 2009). A social worker's view of self and strategy for becoming a social worker appears to be influenced by privilege and oppression,

which appears to infiltrate their connection to these issues. As an illustration, the fact that certain circumstances can elicit our innate

characteristics and transform our decisions or actions into ones that have a profound impact on us serves as a miniature case in point of how self-

reflection operates. Moreover, dialectical reasoning forms the foundation of critical thinking. Critical thinking is derived from both critical

theory and scepticism, which involves challenging the dependability and legitimacy of the information. Dialectical thinking is a cognitive

approach characterized by a holistic perspective that posits the interconnection and mutual influence of life's objects and events (Hideg & Ferris,

2017). Dialects prioritise the attainment of synthesis or integration over the mere substitution of an antithesis for a thesis (Moon, 2016).

Additionally, critical reflection is an important component of anti-oppressive strategies, allowing practitioners to envision abolishing oppression

through institutional and societal reforms (Sakamoto & O. Pinter, 2005). Anti-oppressive techniques emphasize the more focused and

challenging structural power dynamics needed to eliminate oppression. AOP clarifies the link between social justice and social work practice,

making it a more effective model for assessing societal wrongs at the structural level.

Another crucial characteristic associated with critical thinking is structuralism, which emphasizes the impact of systems on individuals

rather than on their emotions. Although a solid foundation is essential for social work, it is not sufficient on its own. Structuralism emphasises on

the large-scale systems that affect social connections and individuals, such as capitalism, colonialism, and patriarchy. Central to social theory,

structuralism also examines a vast array of tentacles, including social movements, uprisings, poverty, and social inequalities.

Critical reflection is essential in identifying chances for social workers to expand their competence as an inherent element of their agency

and identity. It may also provide a sense of empowerment by making people aware of their options and possibilities to choose other actions.

Gibbs' Reflective Cycle is one of the models of critical reflection that allows us to think logically about the experiences individuals had in a

given circumstance (Main,2023). To exemplify, I had both anxiety and excitement while I was preparing to move to Australia. Leaving my

family behind was the most difficult thing for me, but I was excited to see another country and begin my new life. Coming to Australia took a

toll on my mental health since it was the first time I had been out of my comfort zone, but I had to persevere because I decided to pursue my

master's degree at a foreign university. After a few months, I had settled in, made a few acquaintances, and was enjoying my new routine. After
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all of this, I realized that relocating to another country or city will never be simple, but I will always have to persevere and demonstrate

confidence in my decision.

Furthermore, critical reflection eventually leads to social change by merging practice and theory, increasing awareness and capacity to

contribute to a greater cause via conceptual and systematic thought. As an aspiring social worker, I need to understand my positionality in terms

of privilege and injustice. I consider myself fortunate having been born into a financially and emotionally stable household. I have never had any

problems with anything in my life; I have always had the greatest schooling, access to leisure activities, and study resources. Even contemplating

where I have been oppressed in my life is difficult for me for all of these reasons, and as a result, I feel privileged. However, as an Indian, born

and raised in a country steeped in ethics, culture, and patriarchy, growing up as a woman has not been simple. For a variety of reasons, including

equality, human rights for women, and poor quality of life for marginalized groups, there has always been a battle. Social work and feminism

have historically been ideal companions in eradicating societal injustices (Wendt & Moulding, 2017). The scenario altered for women who are

treading the path of women's empowerment, but it was the opposite for women in prior generations. Women in Indian society have not always

had the authority to make their own decisions, exercise basic human rights such as voting, or marry at their discretion, to mention a few.

The privileges and oppressions I have experienced in my life can be considered in the light of critical thinking, which begins by

recognizing that being a woman has been both a benefit and a challenge. When I was growing up in India, I was always taught that it is

inappropriate for girls to do certain things or express certain ideas because society does not allow it. The discussion of ones sex life,

menstruation, and traditional customs may be an example. Moreover, women had to be extremely cautious when traveling alone, going out to

meet with friends, and even at work. As women, we have all been subjected to oppression due to the perception that we are weak and

undervalued. This also came up to me when I was a teenager, I travelled to another city for a wedding and was in the gaming room with my

younger brothers to play computer games when a middle-aged man approached and molested me. I felt stunned, and I fled as fast as I could. I

was sitting alone with my mother in a different room, covering myself with a drape and wondering if my clothing was too exposing. At the time,

I did not tell anyone, even my mother, although I wanted to, but, because he was much older than me, I assumed no one would listen to me. I still

feel like I was being persecuted unknowingly. While growing up, I was educated and empowered to understand that such an incident should have

been reported to either my parents or guardians right away. I could have discussed it with my sister, and I should not have been ashamed about it

because I was not to blame. Analyzing this incident today as a social worker allows me to be more open-minded and accountable for the

circumstances. In addition to this, reflecting on my past experiences allows for a critical examination of how oppressive structures can become

ingrained in both the service user and the practitioner, with a strong nod to intersectionality.

Overall, a comprehensive understanding of the critical issues that society faces at a micro level as well as at a macro level is very

important. As a social worker, it is vital to understand the intersectionality of privilege and oppression and how so many theories, out of which a

few are mentioned above, can be used to deduce analytical and insightful observations.
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