“Det går in i hjärteroten” : En kvalitativ studie om socialarbetares utmaning gällande närhet och distans inom ideella tjej- och kvinnojourer

Sammanfattning: “It pierces the heart” Social workers’ challenges regarding closeness and distance The aim of this study was to examine how social workers working within nonprofit women’s shelters describe closeness and distance in the relationship with clients. The analysis was based on the theory of professionalism with influence of role theory. The study is based of six qualitative interviews with social workers working at non profit organisations with women who have been experiencing domestic violence. The respondents opinions regarding professionalism are conclusive; Their relationship with the clients have to be professional. They all agree on that is not an easy task to balance closeness and distance. Most respondents say that their professional identity, including knowing how to address boundaries, is something that was not an easy task in the beginning of their career.