LAUSR

Summary This study explored strategies for dealing with involuntary social service clients of Social Services Centers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Purposive sampling was employed to recruit 21 social workers engaged with involuntary clients from three cities in the UAE (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Gharbia), representing different regions and demographic variables. Data was collected via in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic content analysis (TCA) and Leximancer software Version 4.5 to validate the results. Findings During the interviews, participants described emerging strategies that they found effective for engaging involuntary clients: effective communication, a conducive atmosphere, a positive attitude, client profile/history, freedom of speech, openness, comfort, confidence building, rapport building, supportive environment and empathy. Applications This study created new understandings about social work in the Middle East, relevant for other parts of the world, about tactics that can be used to develop effective communication with involuntary clients.