학교사회복지사의 가족돌봄아동 사례관리 경험: ‘가족과 나를 돌보는 행복한 성장!’ 사업을 중심으로

Abstract

This study explores the case management experiences of school social workers supporting young carers in school settings, and examines how these professionals perceive the outcomes of their case management efforts. Focus group interviews were conducted with 12 school social workers who participated in Association A’s support program for young carers, titled “Happy Growth through Caring for My Family and Myself.” Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. As a result of the study, the school social workers’ practice experiences in case management for young carers were categorized into the following main categories: “Identifying young carers in schools,” “Experiences of setting goals and plans with children,” “Strategies to encourage children’s participation,” “Building collaborative relationships with families,” and “Working in collaboration with the school system.” In addition, the perceived outcomes of case management for young carers, as recognized by the school social workers, were integrated into four main categories: “Positive changes observed in children,” “Factors contributing to change,” “Remaining challenges: cases requiring long-term intervention,” and “Self-perception as a school social worker.” Based on these findings, the study discusses practical implications for effective case management strategies and suggests directions for enhancing school-based support for young carers.