Innovative pathways to professionalising social work internship supervision in mainland China: a DEMATEL-ISM model approach

As an emerging profession, social work faces challenges in professional development with the rapid growth of Chinese society. Based on in-depth interviews with 13 social work interns and 10 supervisors, this study employed an innovative DEMATEL-ISM model to construct a selection–adaptation–identification supervision mechanism model. The findings showed that supervisory support significantly affected interns’ professional competence and career development. Providing diverse job roles and independent practice opportunities enhanced interns’ adaptability and professional skills. Moreover, effective supervision and systematic support can help mitigate social workers’ burnout and boost their professional levels and career identities. This study also proposed establishing a diverse internship network, building a comprehensive adaptation-support ecosystem, and strengthening professional identity and continuous development, thereby offering a theoretical basis and practical guidance for improving China’s social work internship and supervision mechanisms.