The effect of group intervention on professional interest, satisfaction, and identity development among social workers in Azerbaijan: a mixed-methods study

This study examines the impact of an empowerment-based online group intervention on social workers’ professional satisfaction and interest using a mixed-method, quasi-experimental design with pretest and posttest control groups. The seven-session online intervention integrated psychodrama techniques and interaction-based activities. Qualitatively, sessions were transcribed and analyzed via thematic analysis using MAXQDA 2020, identifying five themes: “Exploration of professional self and solidarity,” “From alienation to professional belonging,” “Empowerment,” “Social work as meaning-making,” and “Developing a future-oriented professional vision.” Quantitative data analyzed with SPSS 22.0 showed statistically significant improvements in overall scores and select subscales on the Professional Satisfaction and Interest Scales in the experimental group. The findings underscore the importance of innovative, culturally responsive online interventions for enhancing social workers’ professional satisfaction, identity, and motivation.