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The rate of secondary school drop-out students in Croatia was about 7 % in a period 1998- 2008 (Matković, 2010). Although the consequences of school drop-out are well known (low employability, social exclusion) this phenomena is not recognized as a social problem in Croatia. In addition, in Croatia does not exist a unique record of the students drop-out number and students’ drop-out tracking system nor a strategy for re-inclusion in the education system or their retraining of the labor market. Therefore, this study is focused on the current opportunities for the student drop-outs in the education system and their possible chances for integration in the labor market. Also, the goal of the study was to find out what kind of support schools provide to the students before they dropped out of the school. The study was conducted in 32 secondary schools by distributing a survey via e - mail. A survey was designed for this study and composed of multiple choices questions and open questions. Participants were 32 experts who work in these schools (20 pedagogysts, 7 psychologists, 3 social pedagogysts, 1 teacher, and 1defectologist). Participants stated that the most dominant risks of falling students from secondary education are related mainly to inadequate academic orientation, the child's motivation for school, low grades and school attendance, as well as to family problems. School experts state that the chances for drop-out students to turn in the education system are generally very weak (N=21 ; 63.6 %). According to the respondents statements these students continue their education mostly through participation in various courses and correspondence schools (N=11 ; 33.3 %), returning to the same high school (N=4 ; 12.1%) and enrollment in less demanding secondary school (N=10 ; 30.3%). In addition, the participants estimated that employment opportunities of drop-out students are very low (N=22 ; 66.7 %) or do not exist at all (N=4 ; 12.1 %). According to the participants opinion the greatest chances of drop-outs for employment are in the private sector (N=6, 18.2 %) and in seasonal work (N=2 ; 6.1%). Also, results show that participants perceived the institutional cooperation with schools very important and should be closer. Namely, in purpose to prevent students’ dropping out from secondary school cooperation between schools and health system and career centers is required because students often choose a school that is not appropriate to their abilities and skills. Furthermore better cooperation with students' families and Centre for Social Welfare is also needed, as well as cooperation between schools and social service system. In addition, it is necessary to monitor students who are at risk of dropping out systematically as well as those students who already dropped-out in purpose to provide needed support and prevent high risks behavior (addiction, crime behavior). According to a school experts opinion there is a need for cooperation between schools and NGOs in purpose to provide an extra help to the students who are at risk of dropping out. In the same time there is also recognized a need for more employed professionals in especially in vocational schools (social pedagogs, psychologists, defectologists, social workers). Furthermore, in purpose to prevent dropping out would be necessary to ensure the free legal assistance and help in developing learning skills to the students who are at risk of falling, and provide variety of education for pupils, parents and teachers, organizing psycho-social support. In addition, the establishment of counseling services for young people to continue their education, and the need of education system reform is required as well as initiative that secondary education becomes mandatory. Regard the complexity of working with students at risk of dropping out professionals recognized the need for additional competencies to increase their efficiency. Therefore, they recognized a need for knowledge in the field of the theory of choice, preventive work, supervision, communication, motivation techniques and methods of psychotherapy and social pedagogy. Finally, 97% of professional staff believes that this is a problem that wider community should be aware of and involved in. Therefore, the drop-out prevention activities should be more focused on individual work with a student, a better cooperation with students' families and centers for social welfare, focused on teamwork and cooperation with vocational guidance. In addition, it is necessary to develop the national strategy and programs for drop-outs re-inclusion in the education system and their preparation for the labor market in purpose to increase better chances for the students with less life conditions and capacities.

European journal of social work.

Osnovni cilj rada jest analizirati postojeću praksu primjene glazbe s ciljem osnaživanja pojedinaca i grupa te njenu ulogu u promicanju osnaživanja kao jedne od temeljnih vrijednosti socijalnog rada. Glazba u socijalnom radu ima dugu povijest, a u svrhu osnaživanja najpoznatija je u obliku Hip-Hop terapije koja je utjelovljena na principu kulturnih kompetencija i perspektivi snaga. Većina mladih cijene "poštovanje" "njihove" glazbe te stoga više uživaju u grupama s rap intervencijama nego u bilo kojoj drugoj vrsti terapija. Popularna glazba pruža voditelju grupe dragocjeno sredstvo za razvoj odnosa i empatičnog saveza s korisnicima. Glazba omogućava poistovjećivanje s temama pjesme i povezivanje s vlastitim izazovima oporavka, podiže raspoloženje, samopouzdanje i motivaciju, poboljšava samosvijest i društvenu svijest, samoregulaciju te služi kao sredstvo za olakšavanje kohezije, povezanosti i terapijskog odnosa. Grupno pisanje pjesama ruši barijere na načine koji pomažu u promicanju jednakosti, nudi nove perspektive, razotkriva uočene ranjivosti i grupnom pisanju pjesama može se pristupiti sa znanjem sposobnosti glazbe da promiče dobrobit. Grupna muzikoterapija potiče osjećaj jednakosti, pomaže u izbacivanju i artikuliranju dugo potiskivanih problema, razrješavanju ambivalentnih emocija, povećava razinu samopoštovanja, smanjuje razinu depresije i anksioznosti, osnažuje, pruža oporavak i izgradnju novog identiteta te pruža osjećaj podrške i jedinstva., Mental disorder of depression is the main topic of this work, including the thematic areas of prevlalence, clinical picture and sympthomatology, differential diagnosis and measuring instruments used in modern times. The characteristics of the occurence of this psychological will be stated with the regard to the developmental period in which occurs, with special emphasis on early childhood, preschool and school age and differences between the occurance in childhood and adulthood. In addition, the topics of parental relationship and suicidality will be discussed as important components when talking about depression. At the end, forms of treatment and therapy will be listed, emphasizing the importance of helping professions through these processes.

Psihodramski grupni pristup je metoda rada koja se koristi u različitim pomagaćkim profesijama, pa tako i u socijalnom radu. Njen je zadatak ojačavanje ljudskih snaga i cjelokupne ličnosti koje bi pomogle u procesu oporavka osobe. Ovaj pristup se primjenjuje i u tretmanima s osobama koje su doživjele neku vrstu traume. Pruža im mogućnost ponovnog proživljavanja emocija i situacija koje su dovele do problema čime ih se uči djelotvornim načinima suočavanja te njihovom prihvaćanju. Iako još ne postoji velik broj istraživanja, ona koja su do sada provedena ukazuju na pozitivan učinak provedbe psihodramskog grupnog procesa u svim tretmanima pa tako i u tretmanima osoba s iskustvom traume. Ističe se važnost daljnje edukacije o traumi i psihodrami te učestalijoj provedbi psihodramskih grupnih tretmana., Psychodrama group approach is a method which is used in different helping professions, including social work. Its task is to empover human strength and the personality of people that would help in the process of a one’s recovery. This approach is also applied in treatments with people who have experienced some type of trauma. It gives them the opportunity to relive the emotions and situations that have led to the problem, thus teaching them about effective ways of dealing with problems and accepting them. Although there is not yet a large number of studies, the ones that exist so far indicate a positive effect of the implementation of the psychodrama group approach in all treatments, including the treatment of people with trauma. The importance of further education on trauma and psychodrama and more frequent implementation of psychodrama group treatments is important and emphasized.

Cilj rada je prikazati trgovinu ljudima te mogućnost implikacije za praksu socijalnog rada. Trgovina ljudima uključuje uporabu sile, prijevare ili prisile za dobivanje neke vrste rada ili komercijalnog seksualnog čina. Svake godine, milijuni muškaraca, žena i djece žrtve su trgovina ljudima širom svijeta, trgovina ljudima može se dogoditi u bilo kojoj zajednici, a žrtve mogu biti bilo koje dobi, rase, spola ili nacionalnosti. Posljednja dva desetljeća pokreti za borbu protiv trgovine ljudima doveli su do značajnih promjena. Uglavnom zbog svijesti, obrazovanja i razvoja zakonodavstva, vidljiv je pomak paradigme na putu u kojem svijet govori o, stavovima prema trgovini ljudima, i tretiranju onih koji su bili žrtve. Zakoni pružaju temelj za pomoć žrtvama i preživjelima, kao i kazneni progon počinitelja u naporima usmjerenim prema okončanju trgovine ljudima. Trgovina ljudima užasna je zlouporaba ljudskih prava, stoga je potrebno osigurati da ista bude priznata, zabilježena i kažnjena, a žrtve dobiju potrebnu pomoć i podršku. Pristup socijalnog rada ne vodi se samo vrijednostima socijalne pravde i ljudskih prava; ona također vidi veći mikro i makro kontekst koji je povezan s trgovinom ljudima. Socijalni radnici imaju jedinstvenu poziciju da primjenjuju svoje znanja i vještine na osobama u vlastitom okruženju, temeljene na snagama i okolišnim pristupima kako bi problem sagledali izvan dihotomije počinitelja i žrtve usmjereni prema kvalitetama koje osnažuju pojedince i grupe kako žrtve tako i zagovornike., The aim of the paper is to present human trafficking and the possibility of implications for the practice of social work. Trafficking in human beings involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some kind of work or commercial sexual act. Every year, millions of men, women and children are victims of human trafficking around the world, human trafficking can occur in any community, and the victims can be of any age, race, gender or nationality. Over the last two decades, anti-trafficking movements have led to significant changes. Mainly due to awareness, education and the development of legislation, there is a visible paradigm shift in the way the world talks about, attitudes towards human trafficking, and the treatment of those who have been victims. The laws provide a basis for assisting victims and survivors, as well as prosecuting perpetrators in efforts to end trafficking. Trafficking in human beings is a terrible abuse of human rights, therefore, it is necessary to ensure that it is recognized, recorded and punished, and that victims receive the necessary assistance and support. The approach to social work is not only guided by the values of social justice and human rights; it also sees a greater micro and macro context associated with human trafficking. Social workers have a unique position to apply their knowledge and skills to people in their own environment, based on strengths and environmental approaches to see the problem outside the dichotomy of perpetrators and victims focused on qualities that empower individuals and groups of both victims and patron.

Internalizirani problemi u ponašanju predstavljaju jedan od glavnih socio-zdravstvenih problema današnjice, kako odraslih tako i djece i mladih. Uz internalizirane probleme vežemo i mentalno zdravlje osobe. Projekcija, da će depresija postati najčešća kronična bolest na svijetu do 2030. godine, postojala je i prije pandemije koronavirusa koja je svakako doprinijela navedenoj projekciji. Prevenciji internaliziranih problema mladih i očuvanju njihovog mentalnog zdravlja mogu pridonijeti razni čimbenici prisutni u obitelji mlade osobe, tj okolini u kojoj živi. Cilj ovog diplomskog rada je ukazati na važnost prevencije problema u ponašanju i očuvanja mentalnog zdravlja mladih, posebno u stanju pandemijske krize koja stvara dodatan teret na zdravlje mladih te naglasiti kako razni stručnjaci, među njima i socijalni radnici, pomažu u prevenciji i očuvanju mentalnog zdravlja. Rezultati prvih istraživanja, početkom 2020. godine, pokazali su brojne negativne posljedice pandemije na mentalno zdravlje ljudi. Vlada je dužna poduzeti mjere kojima će spriječiti pogoršanje zdravstvenog stanja, a to uključuje donošenje Nacionalne strategije očuvanja mentalnog zdravlja djece i mladih koji predstavljaju jednu od najugroženijih skupina., Mental health problems are one of the biggest social and health-related problems of today’s world, in both adults and youngsters. We also associate a person's mental health with internalized problems. The projection that depression will become the most common chronic disease in the world by 2030 existed even before the coronavirus pandemic, which certainly contributed to the aforementioned projection. Various factors present in a young person's family, or their surroundings, can contribute to the prevention of mental health problems in youth. The aim of this thesis is to point out the importance of prevention of behavioral problems and maintaining mental health of young people, especially in a state of pandemic crisis that creates an additional burden on youth health and emphasize how various experts, including social workers, help prevent and preserve mental health. The results of the first research, in early 2020, showed a number of negative consequences of the pandemic on mental health. The government is obliged to take measures to prevent the deterioration of health, and this includes the adoption of the National Strategy for the Preservation of the Mental Health of Children and Youth, which is one of the most vulnerable groups.

Maloljetni počinitelji kaznenih djela osjetljiva su skupina društva kojoj je potrebno posvetiti posebnu pažnju kako bi se nakon počinjenja kaznenih djela resocijalizirali. Procesom resocijalizacije kod maloljetnih počinitelja kaznenih djela sustav potiče promjenu ponašanja i stavova maloljetnika kako se kaznena djela ne bi ponavljala. Tako se maloljetnicima može izreći niz zakonom predviđenih odgojnih mjera, institucionalnih i izvaninstitucionalnih, i pružiti podrška nakon izlaska iz ustanove kako bi se resocijalizacija uspješno provela. U radu su izneseni izazovi koji se javljaju u procesu resocijalizacije u Hrvatskoj i u drugim dijelovima svijeta. Izazovi se nalaze na strani samog maloljetnog počinitelja kaznenog djela, ali i na strani cjelokupnog sustava maloljetničkih sankcija i svih dionika koji sudjeluju u izvršavanju istih. Uz niz prepreka i izazova postoje i primjeri dobre prakse koji daju svjetliju perspektivu procesa resocijalizacije koji se ipak može kvalitetno provesti unatoč svim prisutnim nedostacima sustava. Veliku ulogu u procesu resocijalizacije maloljetnih počinitelja kaznenih djela ima i socijalni rad kao bitna karika društva koja štiti, brine i nadzire maloljetne počinitelje kaznenih djela te im nastoji pomoći u okvirima struke., Juvenile offenders are a vulnerable group that needs special attention in the process of resocialization. Through the process of resocialization the system encourages a change in the behaviour and attitudes of juveniles so that criminal offenses do not recur. Thus, juveniles can be sentenced to a number of statutory educational measures, institutional and non-institutional, and provided with support after leaving the institution in order for the resocialization to be successfully implemented. This paper presents the challenges that arise in the process of resocialization in Croatia and other parts of the world. These challenges are related to the juvenile perpetrator of the crime, but also the entire system of juvenile sanctions and all stakeholders involved in their implementation. In addition to a number of obstacles and challenges, there are examples of good practice that give a brighter perspective of the resocialization process, which can still be well implemented despite of all the system’s shortcomings. Social work also plays an important role in the process of resocialization of juvenile offenders as an important link in the society that protects, cares for and monitors juvenile offenders and seeks to help them within the profession.

Kreativne metode su koristan alat u radu socijalnih radnika, a omogućavaju nam da kreativnim medijima (likovnost, glazba, ples, drama...) i metaforom izrazimo svoje misli, osjećaje i osjete. Korištenjem kreativnih metoda aktiviramo i jačamo kreativni potencijal pojedinca te mu na taj način pružamo priliku da svoje unutrašnje stanje i vanjsku situaciju upozna na različite načine. Kreativne metode doprinose razvoju empatije koja je osnova za formiranje zdravih stavova umjesto preuzimanja društveno ukorijenjenih stereotipa. Od samih početaka profesija socijalnog rada promiče socijalne promjene, rješava probleme u međuljudskim odnosima te osnažuje obespravljene i potlačene pojedince i grupe. Bez teorije i prakse osnaživanja teško je zamisliti profesionalnu praksu socijalnog rada. Osnaživanje se definira kao namjerni proces koji uključuje inicijativu i djelovanje osoba u zadobivanju moći, preuzimanju kontrole u vlastitom životu i boljem pristupu društvenim resursima sa svrhom ostvarivanja osobnih i kolektivnih ciljeva. U ovom radu govori se o kreativnost, kreativnim metodama te o teorija osnaživanja i osnovnim principima prakse osnaživanja u socijalnom radu. Na kraju je pregled istraživanja i prikaz spoznaja gdje su kreativne metode upotrebljene s ciljem osnaživanja pojedinaca i grupa. Cilj ovog rada je prikazati mogućnosti upotrebe kreativnih metoda u kontekstu osnaživanja u socijalnom radu., Creative methods are a useful tool in the work of social workers, and they allow us to express our thoughts, feelings and sensations through creative media (art, music, dance, drama...) and metaphor. By using creative methods, we activate and strengthen the creative potential of the individual, thus giving him the opportunity to get to know his inner state and external situation in different ways. Creative methods contribute to the development of empathy, which is the basis for forming healthy attitudes instead of adopting socially rooted stereotypes. From the very beginning, the social work profession promotes social change, solves problems in interpersonal relationships, and empowers disenfranchised and oppressed individuals and groups. Without empowerment theory and practice, it is difficult to imagine professional social work practice. Empowerment is defined as a deliberate process that involves the initiative and action of individuals in gaining power, taking control of their own lives, and better access to social resources for the purpose of achieving personal and collective goals. This paper discusses creativity, creative methods and the theory of empowerment and the basic principles of empowerment practice in social work. Finally, there is an overview of research and a presentation of insights where creative methods have been used to empower individuals and groups. The aim of this paper is to present the possibilities of using creative methods in the context of empowerment in social work.

Probacijska služba u Hrvatskoj je novi sustav vladine službe koja se financira iz državnog proračuna. Izvršavanje probacijskih poslova je u nadležnosti Sektora za probaciju koji je unutarnja ustrojstvena jedinica Uprave za zatvorski sustav i probaciju Ministarstva pravosuđa. Sukladno Zakonu o probaciji, u članku 1. stavku 2. se određuje: „Probacija je uvjetovana i nadzirana sloboda počinitelja kaznenog djela tijekom koje službenici probacije provode postupke usmjerene na smanjenje rizika da počinitelj ponovi kazneno djelo.“ U Republici Hrvatskoj probacijska služba nije usmjerena samo na nadzor počinitelja već na njegovu resocijalizaciju i reintegraciju u zajednicu, balansirajući komponentama retribucije i rehabilitacije. U okviru probacijske službe uglavnom rade socijalni radnici, socijalni pedagozi, psiholozi i pravnici. Stručnjaci su to pomažućih profesija koji imaju kompetencije za psihosocijalni rad, te im vještine pomažu u pomaganju ljudima za nošenje sa različitim osobnim i životnim poteškoćama. Iz godine u godinu broj zaprimljenih predmeta probacijskih ureda se povećava, te vidljivo je da je za zadržavanje visoke kvalitete obavljanja posla potreban i veći broj zaposlenih službenika. Također, potrebno je dodatno i konstantno educirati službenike, kako bi pratili suvremene trendove i bili uspješni u izvršavanju svojih poslova., Probation system in Croatia is a new system of government services financed from the state budget. Probation work is the responsibility of the Department of probation, which is an internal organizational unit of the Department of prison and probation of the Ministry of Justice. In the law of probation in article 1, paragraph 2 is written: "Probation is conditioned and controlled freedom of offender during which probation officers are implementing a program aimed at reducing the risk that the offender repeats the offense." In Croatia, the probation service is not directed only to control the offender but on his re-socialization and reintegration into the community, balancing components of retribution and rehabilitation. Within the probation service usually work social workers, social pedagogues, psychologists and lawyers. Experts in helping professions who have competence in psychosocial work, and their skills assist in helping people to cope with a variety of personal and life's difficulties. Year after year, the number of cases received in probation offices is increasing, and it is evident that for maintaining high quality of work is required to employ more probation officers. In the end it is necessary to educate and to track current trends so probation officers can be successful in performing their jobs.

Ovaj pregledni rad, na temelju domaćih i stranih istraživanja i članaka,obrađuje temu obrazovnih ishoda djece u skrbi, sa naglaskom na djecu iz dječjih domova kao institucionalnog oblika skrbi. Rad posebno proučava individualna obilježja djece u skrbi, poput općih i psiholoških obilježja, posebnih obrazovnih potreba, te okolinska obilježja, poput biološke obitelji, skrbi, pružatelja skrbi, škole, učitelja, vršnjaka,socijalnih radnika te interdisciplinarne suradnje obrazovnog i socijalnog sustava koje utječu na školski uspjeh djece u skrbi i njihove obrazovne uspjehe. Rad sadrži i kratki pregled intervencija u praksi namijenjenih podržavanju obrazovanja djece iz skrbi prepoznatih u europskim državama., This review paper, using data from domestic and foreign research and articles, handles the topic of educational outcomes of children in care, with emphasis on children in children's homes, a residential type of placement. This paper in particular studies individual features of children in care, such as general and psychological features, special educational needs, and also environmental features, such as their biological families, care, caretakers, schools, teachers, peers, social workers and interdisciplinary cooperation between education system and social welfare system, which can affect educational achievement and educational outcomes of children in care. This paper also contains a brief review of educational interventions for looked-after children in european countries.

Logoterapija Viktora Frankla, kao treća bečka psihoterapijska škola donosi novinu u pristupu i radu sa čovjekom. Naglašavajući duhovnu dimenziju i smatrajući čovjeka trodimenzionalnim bićem Frankl otkriva konkretne i bogate logoterapijske tehnike i jedinstven pristup čovjeku; logoterapijski pristup, koji čovjeku pomaže pronaći, odnosno dati smisao životu i životnim okolnostima. Egzistencijalna analiza; logoterapija bavi se smislom ljudskog postojanja. Dakle, radi se o preglednom radu u kojem je prezentiran nastanak logoterapije, posebnost logoterapije, značenje smisla u logoterapiji, slobodan i sudbinski prostor, tragična trijada Viktora Frankla i smisao patnje, logoterapijski pristup patnji i značenje Sokrata u logoterapiji. Navedene su i pojašnjenje logoterapijske tehnike: autotranscedencija, prkosna moć duha, derefleksija, paradoksna intencija i promjena životnog stava. Predstavljeno je istraživanje mišljenja socijalnih radnika o primjeni duhovnosti u praksi socijalnog rada te mogućnost implementacije logoterapije u socijalni rad. Zaključuje se da je logoterapijski pristup čovjeku pothvat budućnosti u kojem treba ustrajati i čijom se primjenom u socijalnom radu obogaćuju i korisnici i cijeli stručni tim., Viktor Frank's Logotherapy, as the third Vienna Psychotherapy School, brings a novel in approaching and working with a man. Emphasizing the spiritual dimension and treating a man as a three-dimensional being, Frankl reveals specific and rich logotherapy techniques and a unique approach to man; a logotherapy approach, which helps a person to find or give meaning to life and life circumstances. Existential analysis; logotherapy deals with the meaning of human existence. Thus, it is a review of the work presenting the emergence of logotherapy, the particularity of logotherapy, the meaning of meaning in logotherapy, the free and fateful space, the tragic triad of Victor Frank and the meaning of suffering, logotherapy of the suffering and the meaning of Socrates in logotherapy. The clarification of the logotherapeutic techniques was also mentioned: self-transcendence, defamatory power of the spirit, derephlexia, paradoxical intent and change of lifestyle. The research of social workers about the application of spirituality to the practice of social work and the possibility of implementing logotherapy in social work were presented. It is concluded that the logotherapeutic approach to man is a pursuit of the future in which to persevere and whose application in social work is enriched both by the users and by the entire professional team.

Pojam teškoća u razvoju sve je učestaliji pojam u sustavu obrazovanja. Najosjetljiviju skupinu upravo predstavljaju djeca s teškoćama u razvoju. U današnje vrijeme sve je prisutnije zalaganje za promicanje interesa djece s teškoćama u razvoju, te je u prvom planu istaknuta upravo njihova inkluzija u redovito obrazovanje. Osnovni problem predstavlja stručnost i kompetentnost osoba koje su zadužene za provođenje programa odgoja i obrazovanja. Isto tako, neupućenost roditelja s njihovim mogućnostima i mogućnostima njihove djece uvelike usporava napredak sustava obrazovanja djece s teškoćama u razvoju. Iako nedovoljno zastupljena, struka socijalnog rada ima veliku ulogu u ostvarenju svega navedenog. Stoga, cilj ovog istraživanja je dobiti uvid u ulogu socijalnog radnika u sustavu odgoja i obrazovanja, onakvu kakvu je vide roditelji i stručnjaci te onakva kakva bi ona trebala biti. U istraživanju su sudjelovali stručnjaci i roditelji, odnosno 4 stručnjaka u radu s djecom s teškoćama u razvoju te 40 roditelja djece s teškoćama u razvoju. Podatci su prikupljeni pomoću intervjua i web anketa. Dobiveni rezultati pokazuju kako bi struka socijalnog rada uvelike doprinjela u obrazovanju djece s teškoćama u razvoju te kako bi bila potrebna u povećanju roditeljskih kompetencija i upoznavanju s pravima roditelja i djeteta., Developmental difficulty is more and more frequent in the educational system. The most sensitive group is represented by children with developmental difficulties. Nowadays, there is more presence of promoting the interest of children with developmental difficulties and especially their inclusion in regular education. Primary difficulty in executing the program is the lack of education and competences of the educators themselves. Also, the parent’s unawareness of their abilities and the abilities of their own children is slowing down the progress of the educational system of children with developmental difficulties. Insufficiently represented the social service has a major role in executing the program. Therefore the goal of this research is to get the insight of the role the social workers have in the educational system, how the role is seen by the parents and the educators and how it is really supposed to be. Four experts for developmental difficulties and forty parents of the children with developmental difficulties took place in the research. The data is gathered face to face interview and online questioners. The given results show how the social services would contribute to the education of the children with developmental difficulties and also would be necessary in increasing parental competences and getting to know the rights of parents themselves and of their children with developmental difficulties.

Osnovni cilj ovog preglednog rada je opisati opća obilježja supervizije, njene metode, funkcije i značenje te očitovanje u sustavu obrazovanja budućih socijalnih radnika. Supervizija je oblik profesionalne pomoći pomagačima te predstavlja profesionalnu intervenciju neophodnu u profesionalnom razvoju svih koji neposredno rade s ljudima. Ujedno je supervizija ključan način osiguravanja razvoja organizacija i pružanja kvalitete usluga u području (psiho)socijalnog rada. Posebnu pozornost stavljamo na učinak razvoja kompetencija studenata socijalnog rada pregledom istraživanja i donošenja vlastitih zaključaka temeljem pregleda postojeće literature, aktualnih istraživanja te iskustava na Studijskom centru socijalnog rada, Pravnog fakulteta Sveučilišta u Zagrebu., The main purpose of this review is to describe main features of supervision, methods, function and meaning as well as manifestation in educational system of social workers. Supervision is a form of professional assistance towards helpers and it represents a professional intervention which is necessary in professional development of all those who work directly with people. At the same time, supervision is a key way of ensuring the development of organizations and the provision of quality services in (psycho)social work. We give special attention to the affects of development social work student competence through an examination of research and from our own conclusions based on an overview of existing literature, current research and experience at the Study Center of Social Work, Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb.

Uz sve veći razvoj i brže napredovanje tehnologije dolazi do pojave virtualnog okruženja i njezinog širenja na područjima poput socijalnog rada, psihologije, sociologije i drugih struka. Da virtualno okruženje može imati pozitivne učinke na život socijalnih radnika i njihovih korisnika vidimo kroz sve učestaliju pojavu korištenja video tehnologije kako za terapijske svrhe tako i za edukacijske. Pribjegavanje online metodama učenja te kombinacija istog s tradicionalnim načinima učenja uvelike pomaže stučnjacima i studentima u području dodatog obrazovanja, usklađivanja raznih životnih uloga te fleksibilnosti., With the growing development and faster advancement of technology, virtual environments are emerging and spreading in areas such as social work, psychology, sociology and other professions. That the virtual environment can have a positive effect on the lives of social workers and their users are seen through a more frequent occurrence of video technology use both for therapeutic and educational purposes. Applying online learning methods and combining it with traditional learning methods greatly helps experts and students in the area of additional education, matching different roles of life and flexibility.

Maloljetne osobe suočavaju se s brojnim i intenzivnim promjenama u svom životu koje prate to razdoblje odrastanja i predstavljaju normalan tijek prelaska u odraslu dob. Isto tako, maloljetnici su izloženi raznim okolinskim faktorima (ponekad rizičnima) koji mogu dovesti do kriminaliteta kao najopasnijeg poremećaja u ponašanju kako za njih tako i za njihovu okolinu. Cilj ovog rada je detaljno obuhvatiti i prikazati koji su to osobni i okolinski faktori rizika koji svojom brojnošću i interakcijom dovode do nastanka kriminaliteta maloljetnika. Također, u radu su prikazane i mjere koje se izriču maloljetnim počiniteljima kaznenih djela. U konačnici, istaknuta je uloga socijalnih radnika u području rada s djecom i mladima, odnosno na koji način mogu pridonijeti u prevenciji kriminaliteta kako bi se njegova stopa smanjila na što manju mjeru., Juveniles are faced with numerous and intense changes that follow the period of growing up and represent the normal course of transition to adulthood. Similarly, juveniles are exposed to various environmental factors (sometimes risky) that can lead to criminality as the most dangerous behavioral disorder for them and their environment. The aim of this paper is to comprehend and present in detail the personal and environmental risk factors that by their number and interaction lead to juvenile delinquency. Also, the paper presents the measures to be imposed on juvenile perpetrators of criminal offenses. Ultimately, the role of social workers in the field of work with children and young people is emphasized and how they can contribute to the prevention of criminality, in order to lower its rate to the smallest extent.

Razvoj školskog socijalnog rada započeo je u SAD-u 1906. godine. Bio je tada poznat pod institutom „učitelja u posjeti“. Institut je utemeljen jer se shvatilo da je potreba za time velika, jer djecu treba poticati osobno, socijalno, školski i profesionalno. Pri tome pomaže suradnja učenika, škola i obitelji. Tu potrebu su s vremenom uočile i druge zemlje na drugim kontinentima. Opisan je razvoj školskog socijalnog rada u Njemačkoj, koja se može pohvaliti sa preko 3000 zaposlenih školskih radnika, isto kao i Francuska. Švicarska ih ima znatno manje, a Austrija je tek u početcima školskog socijalnog rada. Uspoređujući s tim zemljama Hrvatsku, Hrvatska ne ulaže nikakav napor u ostvarenje školskog socijalnog rada. Upravo se školski socijalni rad prepoznaje i kao način kako spriječiti ispadanje učenika iz sustava obrazovanja, koji se pretvara iz indivdulanog u društveni problem., The development of school social work first started in the USA in 1906. It was then known under the term „visiting teacher“. The institute of school social work was established beacuse it was realized that there is a big need for that, because children should be encouraged on personal, social, school and professional level. Collaboration of students, schools and families helps with it. The need was eventually detected by other countries on other continents. The development of school social work has been described in Germany, which has over 3000 school social workers employed in schools, as well as France. Switzerland has them significantly less, and Austria is only in the beginning of school social work. Compared with these countries, Croatia does not invest any effort in the realization of school social work. School social work has also been recognised as a way to fight dropping out of school, as it developes from an individual to a social problem.

U ovom radu grupni rad predstavljen je kroz njegove temeljne koncepte. Predstavljeni su pozitivni učinci koje grupni rad ima na članove grupe. Vidljivo je kako grupni rad pozitivno utječe na samopouzdanje članova grupe te kako grupni rad uči članove učinkovitoj komunikaciji. Također, u radu su predstavljene i kreativne metode koje se mogu koristiti u grupnom radu. Predstavljeno je na koje načine se može koristiti crtanje, pisanje, igra te dramske tehnike. Naglasak je stavljen na pozitivne učinke kreativnih metoda u grupnom radu s djecom i mladima. Kreativne metode omogućavaju djeci i mladima da se lakše otvore u komunikaciji s ostalima te da izraze sebe, svoja razmišljanja i emocije. U radu je vidljivo i koliko socijalni radnici u svom svakodnevnom radu koriste kreativne metode., In this paper group work is presented through its fundamental concepts. The positive effects that group work has on group members are presented. It is shown that group work has a positive impact on self-confidence of group members and how group work teaches members to communicate more effectively. Also, the paper presents creative methods that can be used in group work. It presents how drawing, writing, playing and dramatic techniques can be used. Emphasis has been put on the positive effects of creative methods in group work with children and youth. Creative methods enable children and young people to communicate better with others and to express themselves, their thoughts and emotions. The paper also shows how social workers use creative methods in their work.

U radu se uvodno pojašnjava koncept delinkventnog ponašanja, pri čemu se pokušava odgovoriti na pitanje što je to delinkventno ponašanje te što dovodi do njegovog razvoja. U povezanosti s time, izdvojene su tri skupine čimbenika rizika koje mogu doprinijeti razvoju delinkvencije: individualni rizični čimbenici, čimbenici rizika u obiteljskom i školskom okruženju te čimbenici rizika u širem društvenom kontekstu. Pored detaljnog razmatranja definicije i čimbenika rizika delinkventnog ponašanja, poseban naglasak stavit će se na delinkvenciju mladih i postupanje prema mladim počiniteljima kaznenih djela u Republici Hrvatskoj pri čemu će biti prikazani statistički podaci Državnog zavoda za statistiku. Iz analiziranih podataka proizlazi da je u razdoblju od 2006. do 2015. godine došlo do smanjenja broja prijavljenih maloljetnika, a najveći broj prijavljenih je počinio kaznena djela protiv imovine. Također se uočava povezanost delinkventnog ponašanja sa spolom i dobi te da su odgojne mjere (mjera pojačane brige i nadzora te posebne obveze) najčešća izricana maloljetnička sankcija. Na kraju rada se ističe važnost i uloga socijalnog rada u okviru delinkventnog ponašanja mladih., The introductory part explains the concept of the delinquent behaviour, i.e. it tries to answer the question what is delinquent behaviour and what causes its development. According to that, there are three groups of risk factors that can contribute to the development of delinquency: individual risk factors, risk factors in the family and school environment and risk factors in the wider social context. After a detailed consideration of definitions and risk factors of delinquent behaviour, a special emphasis will be placed on delinquency of the young and the treatment of young perpetrators of criminal offenses in the Republic of Croatia by representation of statistical data of the Central Bureau of Statistics. The presented analysis shows us that between 2006 and 2015 has been a decrease in the number of reported juveniles and that the largest number of reported persons committed criminal offenses against property. Also, the connection between delinquent behaviour with gender and age is noticed, and the most commonly juvenile sanctions are educational measures (increased care and supervision, special obligations). At the end is shown the importance and the role of social work in the context of delinquent behaviour in youth.

Siromaštvo kao fenomen ima negativne posljedice kako na odrasle, tako i na djecu. Djeca su najranjivija skupina društva stoga im treba posvetiti dodatnu pažnju i zaštitiu. Cilj ovoga rada bio je uvidjeti imaju li djeca koja žive u uvjetima siromaštva lošije obrazovne perspektive za razilku od djece koja ne žive u navedenim uvjetima. Kao što je i prikazano u radu, rezultati mnogih istraživanja potvrđuju pretpostavku kako djeca koja žive u uvjetima siromaštva imaju lošije obrazovne perspektive od djece koja ne žive u navedenim uvjetima, kako imaju lošije uvjete stanovanja, teži pristup zdravstvenoj i socijalnoj zaštiti, oskudijevanje u obući, odjeći i hrani, a nerijetko i postupci odgoja njihovih roditelja nisu adekvatni. Tema ovoga rada područje je koje zahtijeva dodatnu pažnju i pozornost socijalnoga rada jer je područje obrazovnih perspektiva djece koja žive u uvjetima siromaštva uglavnom marginalizirano i zanemareno područje, a djeca koja žive u uvjetima siromaštva nažalost su „nevidljiva djeca“., Poverty as a phenomenon has negative consequences for both adults and children. Children are the most vulnerable group of society so they need to pay extra attention and protection. The aim of this paper was to find out if children living under the poverty conditions have a poorer educational perspective for a variety of children who do not live in these conditions. As outlined in the paper, the results of many researches confirm the assumption that children living in poverty conditions have poorer educational perspectives than children who do not live under these conditions, have poorer living conditions, seek access to health and social protection, dress and feed, and often the processes of parenting are not adequate. The topic of this paper is an area that requires additional attention and attention to social work, as the area of educational prospects of children living in poverty is largely marginalized and neglected, and children living in poverty are unfortunately "invisible children".

Upotreba digitalne tehnologije socijalnih radnika, osobito društvenih mreža, elektroničkih i tekstualnih poruka u svakodnevnom životu, stvorila je nove načine odnosa i komuniciranja s korisnicima. U radu se prikazuje kako socijalni radnici vide mogućnosti i izazove korištenja modernih tehnologija u praksi socijalnog rada i koje su preporuke za njihovo daljnje provođenje u Hrvatskoj. U ovom kvalitativnom istraživanju provedena je fokus grupa s mladim socijalnim radnicima koji kratko rade u praksi. Cilj rada bio je ispitati mišljenja o korištenju modernih tehnologija u praksi socijalnog rada iz perspektive socijalnih radnika. Nakon provedenog istraživanja može se zaključiti da mladi stručnjaci, iako poznaju moderne tehnologije i smatraju ih potrebnima u radu te smatraju da bi se trebala dalje usavršavati i nadograđivati u sustavu, misle kako cijeli sustav socijalne skrbi u Hrvatskoj još nije spreman na takve promjene., The use of digital technology of social workers, especially social networks, electronic and textual messages in everyday life has created new ways of communication and relationship with users.The paper shows how social workers see the opportunities and challenges of using modern technologies and their appliance in area of social work, as well as their recommendations for further implementation of said technologies in Croatia. In this qualitative research, a focus group was formed with young social workers with limited practical experience. The goal of the paper was to examine the views on the use of modern technologies in the practice of social work from the perspective of social workers. After the research has been finalized, it can be concluded that, although young professionals are familiar with modern technology, consider them necessary in the work and believe that they should be further upgraded and perfected in the system; they think that the entire social care system in Croatia is not yet ready for such changes.

Alternativnim sankcijama potiče se humanizacija izvršenja kaznenih sankcija, pričemu se prepoznaje vrijednost probacijskog sustava koji na temeljuindividualiziranog pristupa ima za svrhu učinkovitu resocijalizaciju i reintegracijupočinitelja kaznenog djela. Kako bi se postigla navedena svrha, probacijski sustavdjeluje u međuodnosu sa drugim dionicima kao što su sustav socijalne skrbi, policija,sudovi, zatvori te organizacije civilnog društva kao i ostali dionici u zajednici. Upostizanju zajedničkih ciljeva međusobnom suradnjom, ali i podizanjem svijesti ujavnosti mjerama i strategijama ključnu ulogu ima i socijalna politika koja sakriminologijom dijeli mnoštvo zajedničkih točaka. Probacijski sustav u Hrvatskojizgrađen na kvalitetnim temeljima dobre prakse i europskim standardima svojimdjelovanjem može imati utjecaj na smanjenje recidivizma te na modeliranjeprosocijalnih vrijednosti i socijalnu integraciju počinitelja kaznenih djela., Alternative sanctions encourages the humanization of execution of criminalsanctions, with the recognition of the value of the probation system based onindividualized approach that aims for an effective re-socialization and reintegrationof the offender. In order to achieve the stated purpose, probation system works incooperation with other stakeholders such as the social welfare system, the police,courts, prisons and civil society organizations and other stakeholders in thecommunity. In achieving common goals mutual cooperation, as well as raisingpublic awareness with measures and strategies, the key role has social policythatshares common interest with criminology. Probation System in Croatia made onsound foundations of good practice and European standards of their actions canhave an impact on reducing recidivism and on modeling pro-social values and socialintegration of offenders.

Glavni cilj ovog rada bio je dobiti uvid u iskustvo sudjelovanja vojnih veterana oboljelih od PTSP-a u grupnom radu. Postavljena su dva istraživačka pitanja na koja su se nastojali dobiti odgovori, utemeljeni na iskustvima sudionika. Prvim istraživačkim pitanjem nastojao se dobiti odgovor na pitanje kako vojni veterani oboljeli od PTSP-a koji sudjeluju u grupnom radu doživljavaju određene aspekte grupnog procesa, a s druge strane nastojao se dobiti odgovor na pitanje kako vojni veterani oboljeli od PTSP-a koji sudjeluju u grupnom radu doživljavaju određene aspekte osobne dobiti. Za izradu ovog rada odabran je kvalitativni istraživački pristup, a kao metoda prikupljanja podataka korišten je polustrukturirani intervju. Podaci su prikupljani u Kliničkom bolničkom centru Zagreb tijekom rujna i listopada 2016. godine. Uzorak čini devet vojnih veterana oboljelih od PTSP-a koji se liječe u Kliničkom bolničkom centru Zagreb te su tamo stekli iskustvo sudjelovanja u grupnom radu. Rezultati vezani uz prvo istraživačko pitanje upućuju na to kako su sudionici djelomično zadovoljni grupnim procesom što se može zaključiti iz njihovih doživljaja uloge vodstva, grupne kohezije te programa grupe. Odgovori na drugo istraživačko pitanje pokazali su kako sudionici prepoznaju određene dobiti od sudjelovanja u grupnom radu što je vidljivo iz toga kako doživljavaju upoznavanje i druženje te normalizaciju problema. Isto tako, rezultati su pokazali da sudionici prepoznaju emocionalno rasterećenje do kojeg dolazi zbog sudjelovanja u grupi. Iz toga je moguće zaključiti kako postoji terapijski učinak sudjelovanja u grupnom radu na emocionalno stanje sudionika., The main objective of this study was to gain insight into the experience of participation of war veterans suffering from PTSD in the group work. There were two research questions that were tried to answer, based on the experiences of the participants. The first research question tried to get an answer to the question of how veterans suffering from PTSD involved in group work experience some aspects of the group process, but on the other hand tried to get an answer to a question how veterans suffering from PTSD involved in group work experience some aspects of the personal benefit. For this purpose qualitative research approach was selected and as a collection method a semi-structured interview was chosen. Data were collected in University Hospital Center Zagreb during September and October 2016. Sample consists of nine veterans suffering from PTSD who are treated at University Hospital Center Zagreb, and there have gained the experience of participating in group work. The answers to the first research question indicate that the participants are mostly satisfied with the group process what can be inferred from their experience of the leadership role, group cohesion and group program. Answers to the second research question showed that the participants recognize certain personal benefit from participation in group work what can be infered from their experience of the acquainting and socializing, and normalization of trauma-related problems. Also, results showed that participants recognize emotional relief caused by the participation in the group. It is possible to conclude that there is a therapeutic effect of participation in group work on the emotional state of the participants.

Glavni cilj ovog rada bio je dobiti uvid u iskustvo sudjelovanja ţena ţrtava partnerskog nasilja u grupnom radu. Postavljena su dva istraţivačka pitanja na koja se, na temelju iskustava sudionica, nastojao dobiti odgovor. Prvim istraţivačkim pitanjem nastojao se dobiti odgovor na pitanje kako ţene ţrtve partnerskog nasilja koje sudjeluju u grupnom radu doţivljavaju određene aspekte grupnog procesa, a s druge strane nastojao se dobiti odgovor na pitanje koji su učinci sudjelovanja u grupnom radu na određene aspekte kvalitete ţivota ţena ţrtava partnerskog nasilja. Za to je odabran kvalitativni istraţivački pristup, a kao metoda prikupljanja podataka odabran je polustrukturirani intervju. Podaci su prikupljani u dvama skloništima za ţene ţrtve partnerskog nasilja te na uzorku od šest ţena ţrtava partnerskog nasilja, koje su u tim skloništima smještene te koje u sklopu boravka u tim skloništima sudjeluju u grupnom radu. Dobiveni odgovori na prvo istraţivačko pitanje upućuju na to kako su sudionice zadovoljne grupnim procesom što se moţe zaključiti iz njihovog doţivljaja razvoja grupe, pomaganja među članicama grupe te vodstva u grupi. Odgovori na drugo istraţivačko pitanje pokazali su kako postoji učinak sudjelovanja u grupi na osjećaj sigurnosti u budućnost sudionica što se moţe zaključiti iz svijesti sudionica o razvijenosti nekih njihovih vještina te iz postavljenih temelja za budući ţivot. Nisu dobiveni odgovori o učinku sudjelovanja na mogućnost ostvarivanja bliskih kontakata te pripadanje zajednici, čemu je uzrok metodološki nedostatak metode prikupljanja podataka. Međutim, odgovori su vodili u drugom smjeru, samom prepoznavanju oblika podrške u lokalnoj zajednici od strane sudionica, bilo neformalnih, bilo formalnih., The main objective of this study was to gain insight into the experience of participation of women victims of partner violence in the group work. There were two research questions that were tried to answer, based on the experiences of the participants. The first research question tried to get an answer to the question of how women victims of partner violence involved in group work experience some aspects of the group process, but on the other hand tried to get an answer to a question what are the effects of participation in group work on some aspects of the quality of women lifes. For this purpose qualitative research approach was selected and as a collection method a semi-structured interview was chosen. Data were collected in two shelters for women victims of partner violence and on a sample of six women victims of partner violence, that are located in the shelters and as part of their stay in these shelters they participate in group work. The answers to the first research question indicate that the participants are actually satisfied with the group process what can be inferred from their experience of the development of the group, helping the group members and leadership of the group. Answers to the second research question showed that there is the effect of participation in a group on a sense of security in the future of participants what can be inferred from the consciousness of participats of the development of some of their skills and how they set out the foundations for the future. There was no answer on the impact of participation on the possibility of exercising close contacts and belonging to a community, which is the cause of methodological lack of data collection method. However, the answers are led in a different direction, the recognition of forms of support in the local community by participants, informal or formal support.

Trgovanje ljudima, posebno ženama i djecom, jest trgovanje ljudskom bijedom. Ono predstavlja jedan od najvećih zločina našeg doba i u stalnom je porastu (Bjelica,2001; Cockburn,2003). U ovom radu predstavit ćemo definicije trgovanja ljudima, neka glavna obilježja ove problematike kao i stanje i kretanje ove pojave u svijetu i Republici Hrvatskoj. Trgovanje ljudima predstavlja jedan od najprofitabilnijih oblika organiziranog kriminala te se vjeruje da je po važnosti, zbog niskog rizika i visokog profita, u samom vrhu, odmah iza trgovine drogom i oružjem. Najčešće žrtve ovakvog oblika trgovine su žene i djeca, dakle najranjivije društvene skupine. Zbog ulaska Republike Hrvatske u Europsku uniju i njenog ekonomskog i geografskog položaja, trgovanje ljudima zahvaća Hrvatsku kao tranzitnu zemlju te gotovo podjednako i kao zemlju podrijetla, odnosno odredišta žrtava trgovanja ljudima. Socijalni rad postaje sve više profesija koja se temelji na ljudskim pravima (njihovom utemeljenju, proučavanju, provođenju, zaštiti, unapređenju), u fokusu mnogih programa su upravo oni njeni sadržaji koji, uslijed procesa ujedinjenja, prerastaju u globalne izazove prakse socijalnog rada. U radu ćemo govoriti o raznim čimbenicima prevencije, pri čemu ćemo se osvrnuti na izazove socijalnog rada u prevenciji i pomoći žrtvama trgovanja ljudima., Trafficking in human beings, especially in women and children, is in fact trafficking in human misery. It represents one of the most horrible crime against humanity and it is increasing with every year (Bjelica, 2001; Cockburn, 2003). This paper will present definition of human traficking, some key features of this crime and the situation of this issue in the world and in Croatia. Human trafficking is one of the most lucrative forms of the organized crime, and it is believed that, because of the low risk and high profit, it is at the very top of organized crimes, just behind the drug and arms trafficking. The most common victims of this form of traffi cking are women and children, therefore the most vulnerable social groups. Because of the Croatian accession to the European Union and its economic and geographical position, human trafficking affects Croatia as a transit country, and almost equally as the country of origin or destination of human trafficking victims. As social work is increasingly becoming a profession based on human rights (establishment, study, implementation, protection, improvement), the focus of many programmes are those areas of the social work profession which, due to the process of integration, are being transformed into global challenges of the social work practice. In this paper, we will discuss various factors of prevention , where we will look at the challenges of social work in prevention and assistance to victims of trafficking .

Socijalni rad kao profesija i ustanove socijalne skrbi u Hrvatskoj medijski su često negativno prikazani. Zbog senzacionalizma i nedostatka informacija te nedostatka komentara od struke tj. samih socijalnih radnika, profesija socijalnog rada, ustanove socijalne skrbi te stručnjaci koji rade na tom području često su meta negativnih medijskih napisa. U mom završnom radu na temu „Medijska prezentacija centara za socijalnu skrb u 2012. godini“ analiziran je sadržaj dnevnih novina „Večernji list“. Centar za socijalnu skrb je javna ustanova koja odlučuje o pravima iz socijalne skrbi i pruža socijalne usluge posebno osjetljivim skupinama građana. Zbog te specifičnosti samog sustava, kao i korisnika s kojima se svakodnevno susreće, polazni dojam je bio da je sustav nerijetko negativno prikazan u medijima te se spomentim radom to željelo ispitati. Zbog dobivenih rezultata koji su pokazali da je rad centara za socijalnu rad doista prikazan negativno te su članci koji su analizirani na tu temu bili kategorizirani kao senzacionalistički s fatalističkim prizvukom, diplomskim radom željeli smo dobiti uvid u ulogu centara za socijalnu skrb u promicanju profesije socijalnog rada. Rukovoditelje centara za socijalnu skrb na području Grada Zagreba i Zagrebačke županije ispitali smo što misle kakvu predođbu o socijalnom radu imaju korisnici sustava socijalne skrbi, šira javnost te druge pomagačke struke unutar sustava, zatim što sve rukovoditelji čine u promociji profesije i na koje načine te kakvu podršku imaju u tome., Social work as a profession and social care institutions in Croatia have often been negatively depicted by the media. Due to sensationalism, lack of information and absence of any comment from the profession i.e. social workers themselves, the social work profession, social care institutions and experts in the field have often been the target of negative media articles. My final paper titled “The Media Presentation of Social Care Centers in 2012” analyzed the content of Večernji List daily newspaper. A social care center is a public institution the purpose of which is deciding on social care rights and providing social care services to especially sensitive groups of citizens. On account of a specific nature of the system and its everyday users, the initial impression was that the system had often been negatively depicted by the media and the paper aimed to investigate the thesis. Since the results obtained showed that the work of social care centers was indeed negatively depicted and the articles analyzed were categorized as sensationalistic with a fatalistic tone, this paper aims to obtain the insight into the role of social center care in promoting the social work profession. Heads of social care centers situated in the City of Zagreb and Zagreb County were asked about their opinion of the impression of social care centers held by social care users, the general public and other human services within the system and about what they have done to promote the profession, in what manner and about the support they receive in that respect.