Interventions in Sport Social Work: A Scoping Review

Shuresh  Lotfi; Hamideh Addelyan  Rasi; Shirin  Ahmadnia

doi:10.18502/jimc.v9i3.21816

Shuresh Lotfi Faculty of Social Sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
Hamideh Addelyan Rasi Faculty of Social Sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
Shirin Ahmadnia Faculty of Social Sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jimc.v9i3.21816

Keywords: Athletes, Iran, Social change, Search engine, Social work, Social workers

Abstract

Background: This research aims to gain insight into applied theories in sport social work, service objectives, sport social workers’ interventions, intervention barriers and the professional competencies required to overcome them.

Methods: Using the scoping review method, the concept of sport social work was searched on August 19, 2024, across international (e.g., Scopus, WOS) and national (e.g., Noormags, SID, Magiran, ISC) databases as well as the Sport Social Work Journal, search engines and relevant websites, without time restrictions. Ultimately, 73 scientific records were identified. Documents that addressed both social work and sport/athletes, were included. Non-athlete interventions, non-English records, and studies without accessible full texts were excluded.

Results: Finally 73 records of 668 ones were included and the results showed that ecological theory is the most commonly applied framework in sport social work, and a methodical alignment is observed between service objectives, sport social work theories, and intervention types across three levels: micro (individual athletes and casework social work interventions); mezzo (groups and support systems such as families, coaches, sports teams, and group social work interventions); and macro (sociocultural and economic institutions, and community-based social work interventions). Also, three categories of barriers: profession-related, socio-cultural, and sports system barriers were identified within the context of sports, and to address them, acquiring professional competencies is essential for sport social workers.

Conclusion: This study introduces sport social work in Iran as a novel entry point for advancing education, research, and practical interventions in the sports sector. By addressing psychosocial harms, reducing inequalities, promoting social change, and supporting athlete well-being and performance, sport social work can make a significant contribution to both individual and social development