Job Satisfaction and Its Implications for the Professional Performance of School Social Workers: A Field Study of Social Workers in Schools within the Martyrs of Abdel Jalil District

Abstract

This study investigated the significance of job satisfaction among school social workers and its implications for their professional performance. The research specifically explored how satisfaction levels influence the quality of educational services and the social worker's role in fostering cooperation within the school environment. Methodologically, the study adopted a descriptive research design, utilizing a structured questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. The study population consisted of 20 social workers (85% female and 15% male) employed in basic education schools within the Martyrs of Abdel Jalil District during the 2025–2026 academic year. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), including frequencies, percentages, arithmetic means, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that a high level of job satisfaction among social workers leads to increased enthusiasm, professional commitment, and improved quality of performance. Results showed that 70% of the participants agreed that job satisfaction enhances relationships with students and teachers while contributing to career stability. Furthermore, "studying individual cases" ranked as the most frequent professional activity, with a 90% agreement rate. The study recommended developing integrated strategic plans for social service offices and implementing evidence-based reward systems to enhance satisfaction levels. It also emphasized the necessity of conducting further academic research to deepen the understanding of psychological factors affecting school social workers.