What is a common concern faced during coalition-building within social work?

During coalition-building in social work, a common concern is the differences among coalition members that can lead to paralysis. This reflects the complexities of working with diverse groups who may have varying priorities, values, and agendas. When coalition members do not see eye-to-eye on key issues, decision-making can become stalled. Such differences can result in conflicts or a lack of consensus on how to approach the coalition's goals. These disagreements can prevent the coalition from moving forward effectively, thereby hindering collaboration and the achievement of common objectives.

In contrast, while issues around funding sources, scheduling meetings, and community interest are certainly important, they are often secondary to the fundamental need for cohesion and agreement within the coalition. If members are struggling to reconcile their differences, it can overshadow other logistical concerns or resource issues. Overall, recognizing and addressing the interpersonal dynamics and differing perspectives among coalition members is crucial for successful coalition-building efforts in social work.