Volume 26, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Social Welfare Quarterly 2026, 26(1): 255-282 |
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Avarideh S, Ghaffari G, Tavakolirad M. (2026). The Lived Experience of Female Social Workers: a Thematic Analysis of Occupational Burnout and Professional Agency. Social Welfare Quarterly. 26(1), 255-282. doi:10.32598/refahj.26.100.9
URL: http://refahj.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-4520-en.html
URL: http://refahj.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-4520-en.html
Abstract: (913 Views)
Introduction: Social workers play a vital role in enhancing clients’ quality of life; however, the profession entails psychological stress, role conflict, and ambiguous working conditions. These challenges intensify for female social workers, who must navigate familial, social, and gender-based responsibilities alongside professional duties. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of female social workers regarding job burnout and professional activism within the Iranian context.
Method: A qualitative thematic analysis was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 married female social workers employed at welfare centers in Sowme’eh Sara, selected via purposive sampling based on data saturation.
Findings: Analysis revealed two main themes: (1) multi-layered occupational erosion, encompassing exposure to trauma, occupational stress disrupting family interactions, organizational challenges, compassion fatigue, economic difficulties, and communicative challenges with clients; and (2) professional agency in client empowerment, including activism during crises and client participation in the social work process.
Discussion: The findings indicate that female social workers face significant psychological and organizational challenges that threaten their well-being and professional efficacy. Their multiple roles and responsibilities increase susceptibility to burnout. Although they empower clients, their own needs are often neglected. This neglect diminishes their resilience and professional agency while leaving vulnerable clients more unprotected. Supportive workplace policies are essential to address these issues.
Method: A qualitative thematic analysis was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 married female social workers employed at welfare centers in Sowme’eh Sara, selected via purposive sampling based on data saturation.
Findings: Analysis revealed two main themes: (1) multi-layered occupational erosion, encompassing exposure to trauma, occupational stress disrupting family interactions, organizational challenges, compassion fatigue, economic difficulties, and communicative challenges with clients; and (2) professional agency in client empowerment, including activism during crises and client participation in the social work process.
Discussion: The findings indicate that female social workers face significant psychological and organizational challenges that threaten their well-being and professional efficacy. Their multiple roles and responsibilities increase susceptibility to burnout. Although they empower clients, their own needs are often neglected. This neglect diminishes their resilience and professional agency while leaving vulnerable clients more unprotected. Supportive workplace policies are essential to address these issues.
Keywords: Clients, Female Social Workers, Job Burnout, Occupational Experiences, Social Workers', Professional Agency.
Type of Study: orginal |
Received: 2025/09/7 | Accepted: 2025/12/10 | Published: 2026/05/31
Received: 2025/09/7 | Accepted: 2025/12/10 | Published: 2026/05/31
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