Balansen mellan relationer och regelverk: En kvalitativ intervjustudie om personalens syn på att möta HVB-placerade ungdomars behov

Sammanfattning: Professionals working at youth homes have numerous responsibilities in supporting the development of the youths in care. However, professionals face expectations from society, their employer, and the youth themselves, all of which can come in conflict with the law and the regulations of the youth home. Balancing the expectations with the regulations can be challenging for professionals working at youth homes. This study focuses on how professionals at youth homes perceive their freedom of action and how the regulations and expectations can benefit and restrict them in their role. Interviews were conducted with six professionals from three different youth homes in Sweden. The findings of this study suggest that navigating a regulated scope of action can present challenges. Still, if the professionals have a clear understanding of the needs of the youth it can be to their advantage whilst working with them towards a beneficial development. Building relationships with the youths whilst maintaining a role as a safe adult with boundaries is crucial for professionals working in this field, however, they still face difficulties due to the regulations.