School Social Worker Staffing and Relevant Changes in the Education Field: A Review of the Japanese Literature

Abstract

Through conducting a literature review, this study aims to elucidate the changes in the educational field regarding the placement of school social workers. We searched the academic database CiNii using the keywords “school social work,” “school social worker,” “social work in school,” and “social worker in school.” Among 827 studies, we included 19 studies that met the selection criteria. We found 12 qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies. Qualitative research identified four categories of changes: teachers/schools, children, homes, and communities. Quantitative research focused on the relationship between the placement of a school social worker and potential changes and on factors related to the changes. These changes were related to children’s challenges and teachers’ workload. Utilization of school social workers, availability of welfare-related qualifications, and the specialty of school social workers were reported as related factors. A practical suggestion concerned the importance of school social workers’ approach to school organization. Awareness of its functioning and practical contribution to the system is required in the future.