’’Utan behandlingsrelationen så finns det väldigt små utsikter’’ – En kvalitativ studie av hälso-och sjukvårdskuratorers syn på relationens betydelse inom ungdomsmottagningen

Abstract

Without the treatment relationship there are very few opportunities The aim of the study is to review the reflections of health social workers, regarding the treatment relationship with youths in youth guidance centers. The empirical data was collected with the help of semi-structured interviews with seven health social workers, throughout the period of March – April 2023. A thematic analysis was used as the choice of method, to analyze the transcriptions of the interviews. The results of the study indicate that the relationship between the health social worker and the youth plays a vital role in the treatment which they receive. According to the interviewees, an established relationship contributes to a sense of safety for the youth and is perceived as beneficial from a collaboration perspective. Regarding the ideal approach, the health social workers emphasized the importance of self-disclosure. This was motivated by the fact that it can contribute to a deeper understanding of the other person’s situation. The results also indicated that self-disclosure can be used as a tool to strengthen the alliance between them. Another important aspect of the approach is the use of humor. The interviewees expressed the importance of making the youth feel comfortable and de-dramatize the situation by being able to use humor in their interactions. Lastly the results showed that clarity also played an important role in the relationship establishment. By informing the youth of their responsibilities and what to expect from the professional relationship, the risk of misunderstanding was largely reduced.