Austria in Times of Crisis

Research on professional Social Work in a challenging environment

Since 2022, Austria has been grappling with a series of crises that have profoundly impacted societal life. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have exacerbated social issues, presenting significant challenges for professional Social Work. In this research project researchers at MCI aim to explore how social workers are dealing with these complex and escalating social problems and whether and how their methods and interventions are evolving in response.

The project employs a qualitative-exploratory and multi-method approach. It involves collecting daily journals and conducting semi-narrative and problem-centered interviews with social workers from three different practice fields in Tyrol. The goal is to capture, analyze, and discipline the relevant aspects of professional practices in the context of contemporary, multiple, and interdependent crises.

By examining how social workers adapt their practices to the changing social conditions, the project seeks to provide valuable insights into current challenges and adaptive strategies in the field of Social Work. The findings are expected to inform the profession about evolving issues and potential directions for further development.

In times of great uncertainty and crisis, this project represents a crucial step toward enhancing the resilience and adaptability of Social Work, preparing the profession to meet new demands and challenges effectively.