Analysis of the professional image of a social worker from the point of view of social service users

Abstract

An employee's professional image is one of the main components of an institution's image.
The institution's attractiveness in society, the quality of services, and the feedback from service
recipients depend on its reputation. In order to ensure an attractive image, a social worker must
work integrally, not abuse his professional position, define and respect the boundaries between
his personal life and professional activity. It is important to provide social services
professionally, taking into account the individual needs and interests of social service
recipients, teaching them to listen, respectfully express and constructively accept professional
criticism, since the problems of social service recipients are solved, their experiences in
communicating with the employee and positive feedback form a positive image of the
profession. The purpose of the article is to analyze the professional image of a social worker
from the point of view of social service recipients. The article aims to analyze the professional
54
Taikomieji moksliniai tyrimai / Applied Scientific Research
ISSN 2783-6290
2025, 5(1), 42–56.
Gauta 2024-10-29. Publikuota 2025-05-05.
image of a social worker through the components of the professional image of a social worker.
121 respondents participated in the study. The quantitative analysis of the study revealed that
the social worker's behavior at work is most favorably evaluated, but it is noticeable that
confidentiality is not always respected. The social worker sometimes does not implement social
justice, does not respect human dignity, does not follow human rights and democracy, thereby
worsening the current situation in the family. Despite this, he is honest and responsible,
improving his professional competences. The image components that need to be improved are
the specialist's behavior at work, professional competences and professional work clothes. It is
important to raise the prestige of the profession in society by publicizing social work in the
media, organizing seminars and trainings.