ЗАПОБІГАННЯ КОНФЛІКТАМ І СТРЕСАМ В КОМАНДНІЙ РОБОТІ СОЦІАЛЬНИХ ПРАЦІВНИКІВ

The purpose of this study is to explore the necessity and methods of preventing conflicts and stress in the teamwork of social workers. The research employs methods of theoretical analysis, generalization of scientific sources, and data systematization to investigate the nature of conflicts in social work. The study examines various types of conflicts, including social, labor, and organizational conflicts, their causes, stages of development, and their impact on work efficiency. Conflicts in social work are analyzed as inevitable phenomena arising from differences in values, interests, and communication gaps, which, if unresolved, can lead to reduced motivation, strained relationships, and increased staff turnover. The research highlights that social workers frequently encounter conflicts in their interactions with individuals, families, communities, and organizations, necessitating a deep understanding of conflict dynamics and effective resolution strategies. The results demonstrate that proactive conflict management significantly enhances team collaboration, reduces workplace stress, and improves the quality of social services provided. Key methods identified for conflict resolution include mediation, crisis intervention, restorative justice, community organization, and advocacy, each tailored to specific conflict contexts. Mediation facilitates communication and mutual understanding, while crisis intervention stabilizes tense situations. Restorative justice focuses on repairing harm and rebuilding relationships, and community organization empowers collective problem-solving. Advocacy ensures the representation of marginalized groups, addressing systemic issues. Additionally, the study proposes a diagnostic and management algorithm that includes identifying conflict sources, analyzing participants’ interests, and implementing structured solutions. The findings underscore that effective conflict management not only mitigates negative outcomes but also transforms conflicts into opportunities for organizational growth and professional development. Strategic communication, timely diagnosis of conflict emergence, and the application of modern management approaches are critical to fostering a positive work environment. The study concludes that conflict management is an essential competency for social workers, enabling them to maintain productive relationships and deliver high-quality services. Future research should focus on integrating international experiences in conflict prevention within social work to further enhance practices in this field.