Operational Factors of Social Worker in Pre-release Preparation and Post-Release and Follow-up for Children and Youth in Juvenile Detention Centers in Thailand

Abstract

This research consists purposes were 1. to study the operational factors of social workers in preparing juveniles for release and in conducting post-release follow-up and 2. to study the performance outcomes of social workers in preparing juveniles for release and in conducting post-release follow-up. This study employed a quantitative research design. The research instrument was a questionnaire. The sample consisted of 86 respondents. Data collected from the questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The results of the study revealed the following 1) Operational factors of social workers in preparing juveniles for release and conducting post-release follow-up were, overall, at a high level (x̅ = 4.29, S.D. = 0.62). When considered by aspect, ranked from highest to lowest mean score, the results were as follows 1.1) Relationship with colleagues (x̅ = 4.38, S.D. = 0.60) indicating that the working environment fosters cooperation and a positive atmosphere conducive to effective performance 1.2) Relationship with subordinates (x̅ = 4.31, S.D. = 0.74) reflecting positive interactions and good relationships between social workers and related personnel 1.3) Responsibility (x̅ = 4.29, S.D. = 0.58) showing that social workers are aware of their duties and act with responsibility toward juveniles throughout the process 1.4) Work achievement (x̅ = 4.23, S.D. = 0.56) suggesting that social workers perceive their work as meeting established goals 1.5) Relationship with supervisors (x̅ = 4.22, S.D. = 0.63) and 2) Performance outcomes of social workers in preparing juveniles for release and conducting post-release follow-up were, overall, at a high level (x̅ = 4.01, S.D. = 0.58). When considered by aspect, ranked from highest to lowest mean score, the results were as follows 2.1) The extent to which the target group benefits from policies (x̅ = 4.20, S.D. = 0.57) reflecting that relevant policies have delivered tangible outcomes for juveniles in the process 2.2) Behavioral changes among stakeholders (x̅ = 4.02, S.D. = 0.54) indicating that social workers play a role in promoting behavioral adjustments among juveniles and their families 2.3) Feasibility of policy implementation (x̅ = 3.98, S.D. = 0.57) suggesting that the policies are suitable and sufficiently clear to be implemented in practice and 2.4) Continuity of activities (x̅ = 3.83, S.D. = 0.64) reflecting limitations in follow-up or a lack of consistent connection between activities after juveniles are released.