Professional Work in Social-Educational Services: Challenges and Helps in the Workplace

The professionalism and the work conditions of those employed in (residential ) care facilities are a success factor for the upbringing of young people living in care. What prompts the presented study is the question of stress-factors and means of alleviating them for these professionals.

The presentation is based on an employee survey undertaken by in a german NGO together with an analysis of theoretical approaches to this matter and a critical evaluation of questions it raises.

The main findings point to the scope of action, pertinent resources, and the organizational culture as important factors in this matter. Time pressure, interruptions of breaks, and emotional stress caused by work present concrete stress factors in the normal workday. The same holds for the pressures afforded by work interruptions and staff shortages. Those responding to this survey see the largest resource to be found within the workplace as the role of teamwork. In this context, reference is made in particular to opportunities for exchange and reflection. Relief also offers the learning and development opportunities of employees. In addition, social aspects play an important role in this, including the workplace atmosphere as well as the reliability of colleagues and supervisors. Furthermore, participation in decision-making processes and the ease with which employees can feel part of the organization and support its goals play an important factor here.

The importance such factors play should influence job design and support the self-care of professionals. This should be discussed with the participants.