Attitudes of Children and Professionals to Support of Socialization Centers Cover Image

Vaikų ir pagalbos specialistų požiūris į socializacijos centruose teikiamą pagalbą vaikams
Attitudes of Children and Professionals to Support of Socialization Centers

Author(s): Odeta Merfeldaitė, Jolanta Pivorienė
Subject(s): Social Sciences
Published by: Mykolas Romeris University
Keywords: child; professionals; socialization center (closed institution); support

Summary/Abstract: The aim of the article is to find out the attitudes of children and professionals in socialization centers about socio-pedagogical support and the role of the professionals in providing different kinds of support for children in the centers. Qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were used. 124 children in socialization centers participated in the ssurvey, which constitutes 79% of the total population. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 professionals at six socialization centers. Research data is presented according to two topics: support before and during implementation of child care at socializations centers. Generalized research data shows that children most often ask support from parents, social pedagogues, and, in some cases, from psychologist and child protection specialists. They almost never ask for support from teachers, despite receiving support from them very often. There is statistically a significant relation between received support and place of living. Younger teenagers and those who live in towns receive support from their parents more often. It is difficult for children to adapt in socialization centers because of negative attitudes toward the center, their longing for home, communication problems with others in the center. The head teacher, vice director and social pedagogue are all professionals who help to adapt in the center most often. According to the survey data, the main problems at the center are addictions and conflicts. A big part of teenagers never ask for help at the center.

  • Issue Year: 10/2011
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 255-266
  • Page Count: 12
  • Language: Lithuanian
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