Özet:

The aim of this study is to determine the status of social workers in considering the right of children to participate in the professional implementation process and the obstacles to child participation. A questionnaire consisting of 36 items was used in the study which was designed based on quantitative research design. Social work experts, one of the professional organizations of social workers, have been working with members of social services experts and 243 social workers have been reached. Statistical analyzes were performed in SPSS program and categorical variables were expressed with frequency and percentage values. Chi-square test was used for correlation analysis. According to social workers, the biggest obstacle to child participation is the institutional structure. Standardized procedures and the hierarchical structure of institutions prevent child participation. It is difficult to communicate with children and get their ideas due to the intensity of work. It is another obstacle that there are no suitable child friendly areas in which the children can be interviewed. In addition, it is stated that lack of supervision in professional practices contributes. On the other hand, the unwillingness of children and their inability to express themselves well are other obstacles to child participation. The heavy working conditions of social workers and the fact that institutional structures are far from being child friendly constitute a big obstacle to children's right to participate. Trainings to increase the ability of social workers to talk with children, and employment policies that will allow them to spend more time on review processes will have a positive impact on child participation.

Anahtar Kelimeler: