Abstract:

In a society that faces challenges that are reflected in social behaviors among individuals, the intervention of Social Education, as a professional qualified for training and human development, where they develop models of practices that promote social well-being through socio-educational intervention, become increasingly necessary and relevant. Thus, the question that guides the study is: what are the personal and professional motivations of Social Educators? The study is of a qualitative nature, using the webQDA® software for data analysis, through open procedures, corresponding to a permanent process of progressive creation, in which, the reflection and data analysis are triangulated rigorously and constantly to identify personal motivations and Social Educator professionals. 14 interviews were carried out with Licensed Social Educators from the North of Portugal. Authorizations were previously requested to record the interviews (with an average duration of 1h and 16min) and anonymity and protection of the interviewees' personal data throughout the study was guaranteed. The three emerging categories: Personal and social development; Support services for people with disabilities; Leisure time occupation centers; Associations of socio-cultural animation, and validated, according to the Delphi method. The data were triangulated between the interviews and the document analysis. The main results were: The degree in Social Education was your first option when applying for Higher Education. This choice is due to the fact that they see it as a dynamic, diversified degree, with a very strong social justice aspect. The desire to work with people and in a help perspective, emerges as the great motivation. Difficulties in accessing the labor market, lack of motivation and little clarification of the functions of the Social Educator are some of the causes pointed out for this dissatisfaction. The main conclusions are: These professionals assume a decisive role in guiding life trajectories, in the recognition of human dignity and in the importance of love and compassion for those who are in some way in a situation of greater vulnerability. However, Social Educators still face some challenges, among which professional recognition stands out. In this sense, we intend to know the main motivations for choosing the degree course in Social Education as well as for the profession of Social Educator.

Keywords:

Social Education, Professional Recognition, Professional Motivation.