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

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.