Digitalisering i socialt arbete: Social arbetares arbete med våld i nära relationer
2026 (Swedish)Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
Student thesisAlternative title
Digitalization in social work : Social workers' working methods regarding domestic violence (English)
Abstract [en]
This study examines how digitalization influences social work practices in cases of domestic violence. The aim is to explore social workers’ experiences of opportunities and challenges associated with the use of digital tools when supporting individuals exposed to domestic violence. The study is based on a qualitative method consisting of semi-structured interviews with social workers and is analyzed through a hermeneutic approach. The theoretical framework draws on Lipsky’s theory of street-level bureaucracy and systems theory.The findings show that digitalization has created new opportunities for documentation, communication, accessibility, and inter-agency collaboration, enabling support services to reach clients more efficiently. Digital tools can lower barriers for seeking help and increase flexibility in service provision. At the same time, the results highlight challenges related to confidentiality, legal certainty, relationship building, and the assessment of clients’ needs. The study also demonstrates that digitalization has contributed to the emergence of digital violence, where perpetrators use digital technologies to monitor, control, and isolate victims.The analysis indicates that social workers, as street-level bureaucrats, must continuously balance organizational demands, professional discretion, and clients’ individual needs. From a systems theory perspective, digitalization affects the interactions between clients, social services, and other actors involved in domestic violence interventions. The study concludes that digitalization offers significant benefits but requires careful consideration of safety, trust, and the specific circumstances of individuals exposed to violence.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2026. , p. 57
Keywords [en]
Domestic violence, social worker, digitalization, social services, violence, domestic abuse, street-level bureaucracy and professional discretion.
National Category
Social Work
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:lnu:diva-148143OAI: oai:DiVA.org:lnu-148143DiVA, id: diva2:2079948
Subject / course
Social Work
Educational program
Social Work Study Programme, 210 credits
Supervisors
Examiners
2026-08-202026-06-252026-08-20Bibliographically approved