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In 1992 the new law of adult guardianship (Betreuungsrecht) replaced the former legal incapacity and guardianship law (Vormundschafts- und Pflegschaftsrecht) which has remained in Germany without essential alterations since 1900. In consideration of the experiences in the following years a ´reform of the reform´ passed into law in 1999 (Betreuungsrechtsänderungsgesetz). The historical development of the law of adult guardianship in Germany and the effects on elderly, handicapped and mentally disabled people are described. After a presentation of the main juridical issues psychological aspects of health (salutogenetic model) and work (models of work motivation and goal setting) are highlightened. Besides the social situation of wards the empirical study focusses on professional guardians. On one hand they are key agents to realise the (new) concept of empowerment and rehabilitation, on the other hand the basic profession of guardians is not restricted by law and there is no specific curriculum to be studied. Therefore the following topics are analysed with reference to empirical findings that base on interviews with guardians: work motivation and satisfaction, job characteristics, attitude and goal setting. The requirements to work in the context of guardianship are examined and the implications for professional training to ensure a high quality of work of professional guardians are discussed