The Role of School Social Workers in Promoting Student Social-Emotional Well-Being
Major
Educational Studies
Submission Type
Oral Presentation
Area of Study or Work
Educational Studies
Faculty Advisor
Leah Nillas
Location
CNS C102
Start Date
4-12-2025 8:30 AM
End Date
4-12-2025 9:30 AM
Abstract
School social workers (SSW) have become prominent figures within the school setting in addressing and advocating for students' social-emotional well-being. Mental health has become an increasingly prevalent concern among children and youth and is often associated with harmful academic and personal outcomes (Frauenholtz, Williford, & Mendenhall, 2015). This literature review and analysis of existing research on school social work interventions aims at promoting the social-emotional well-being of students. It centers on understanding key concepts such as interventions, and social-emotional well-being, emphasizing the role of school social workers in addressing the mental, emotional, and behavioral needs of students while reinforcing professional development for school staff. Interventions at various levels are explored, varying from individual to systemic approaches that aim to create a positive school climate, reduce stigma, and improve school access to mental health resources. The research synthesis utilizes Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) Ecological Systems Theory to understand the influence of different environmental layers, specifically the microsystem within the school, on student well-being. Through an analysis of current research on effective interventions, this research offers valuable insights into how school social workers can best aid students' social-emotional health. Additionally, it discusses practical applications of these findings to inform the work of current and future school social workers, providing strategies that can be employed to address both the immediate and long-term needs of students. This research synthesis emphasizes that by equipping school social workers with evidence-based strategies, they can significantly improve student mental health and success, highlighting the continuous need for professional development and collaboration to ensure effective and sustainable interventions.
The Role of School Social Workers in Promoting Student Social-Emotional Well-Being
CNS C102
School social workers (SSW) have become prominent figures within the school setting in addressing and advocating for students' social-emotional well-being. Mental health has become an increasingly prevalent concern among children and youth and is often associated with harmful academic and personal outcomes (Frauenholtz, Williford, & Mendenhall, 2015). This literature review and analysis of existing research on school social work interventions aims at promoting the social-emotional well-being of students. It centers on understanding key concepts such as interventions, and social-emotional well-being, emphasizing the role of school social workers in addressing the mental, emotional, and behavioral needs of students while reinforcing professional development for school staff. Interventions at various levels are explored, varying from individual to systemic approaches that aim to create a positive school climate, reduce stigma, and improve school access to mental health resources. The research synthesis utilizes Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) Ecological Systems Theory to understand the influence of different environmental layers, specifically the microsystem within the school, on student well-being. Through an analysis of current research on effective interventions, this research offers valuable insights into how school social workers can best aid students' social-emotional health. Additionally, it discusses practical applications of these findings to inform the work of current and future school social workers, providing strategies that can be employed to address both the immediate and long-term needs of students. This research synthesis emphasizes that by equipping school social workers with evidence-based strategies, they can significantly improve student mental health and success, highlighting the continuous need for professional development and collaboration to ensure effective and sustainable interventions.