Rhodé Visser ~ From Social Work to Social Empathy: A Perspective on Dutch Caregiving Practices

This thesis aims to explore the intersection of care and the Dutch industries in the Netherlands, analyzing how role divisions and power dynamics may impact caregivers and care recipients. The thesis is written with a interdisciplinary approach, drawing on educational, professional, and personal experiences. It also incorporates ideas from sociology, psychology, philosophy, and the art world. The first part of the thesis explores the historical background of caregiving in the Netherlands, showing how historical practices still inuence contemporary ideas and approaches under the umbrella of “caregiving”. A signicant focus is on highlighting how power dynamics impact the safety and quality of care, often leading to unsafe conditions due to systemic power imbalances. The thesis also addresses the need for renewed complaint processes, rethinking what complaint is and the necessity and representation of the need for unions to bundle the complaints and experiences that come with the imbalances. The relationship between the creative industries and care is examined, highlighting the consequences of exploitation in these domains. The thesis claims that caregiving practices are have been greatly impacted by the transition to an experience and attention economy and urges a reevaluation of these practices. The thesis promotes a more about people and more attentive method of providing care. It argues for caring methods that prioritize well-being, dignity, and fair processes and highlights the critical need for caregivers to recognize the enormous impact they have on the lives of care recipients.