Job Satisfaction of Social Workers in Sri Lanka: A Survey Study

This survey was conducted to study the multivariate aspects of job satisfaction of selected social workers in Sri Lanka, by examining the different indicators that affect their professional well-being. Founded on qualitative studies with fifteen entities of active social workers, the research ascertains the principal factors influencing job satisfaction, including organisational environment, satisfaction with salary, control of workload, professional autonomy, and possibilities for career advancement. The findings reveal that great dissatisfaction with salary compensation compared to workload and responsibility, with the respondents reporting poor work-life balance due to over-demand. While most of the respondents were content with organisational recognition and appreciation, most of them cited low levels of decision-making autonomy as a major inhibitor to job satisfaction. Career development was a paramount influencer, though most of the respondents reported few promotion opportunities within their organisations. The research demands widespread policy reform, more professional status, more career advancement opportunities, and improved reward systems in light of the multifactorial nature of social workers' job satisfaction in Sri Lanka. The implications of the findings are significant for organisational management, policymakers, and the social work profession in general, highlighting the need for systemic changes in favour of this critical workforce.