Digital technology Integration in social work practice with youth in Latvia and Slovakia

Abstract

This study examined how digital technologies are integrated into social work practice with youth in Latvia and Slovakia, focusing on the nature and forms of integration, factors shaping adoption and continued use, and how social workers interpret and enact ethical considerations in practice. A qualitative research methodology was employed using semi-structured interviews with twelve social workers across Latvia (8) and Slovakia (4). Thematic Analysis was implemented using MAXQDA, using an abductive research strategy, with an initial deductive coding framework from existing theory remaining open to inductively emerging codes and categories. The study was guided by an integrated theoretical framework of Digital Social Work, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the Expectation Confirmation Model (ECM), and ethical principles in social work. The findings showed that digital technologies were primarily integrated as complementary and hybrid forms of practice rather than replacements for face-to-face work. Social workers used digital tools for communication, outreach, data management, inspiration and practice support, administrative collaboration, and interactive engagement. Technology adoption and continuation were influenced by perceived usefulness, ease of use, organizational support, digital competence, relational needs, and user satisfaction. Ethical concerns related to confidentiality, informed consent, professional boundaries, and data protection remained central in practice, with social workers often relying on professional judgment to navigate ethical dilemmas. The study concluded that digital social work in Latvia and Slovakia was a practice-embedded, relationally oriented, and ethically bounded form of professional practice that is still developing.