Job perceptions and training needs of social workers from rural areas - comparative research in seven European countries

Social work professionals have a very complex and emotionally demanding job: they face a large variety of clients, usually the most vulnerable individuals and social groups, who found themselves in problematic situations or even dramas. This kind of work requires a great adaptability, both in terms of professional tools and personal resources. Social workers can experience stress, negative emotions, lack of energy and motivation, dissatisfaction and even burnout, as consequences of their work. This study aims to identify one common profile on job perceptions (including occupational stressors and burnout symptoms) and needs in professional development of social workers from rural regions of seven European countries (Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Slovenia). The sample includes 348 social workers who filled in a questionnaire via email. The main results stress the existence of organizational stressors and the need for continuous professional development.