The Impact of Aggression on Acute Stress Responses, Skills Use, and Training Evaluation in Social Work: A Survey Study

Abstract

Summary: Social workers are frequently exposed to verbal and physical aggression from service users, which can negatively impact their psychological well-being and professional functioning. This study investigated the relationship between aggression exposure, acute stress responses, and perceived competencies among Dutch social workers. An online survey of 431 practitioners assessed experiences with different forms of aggression (e.g., verbal threats, physical violence, anticipation), acute stress reactions, self-perceived competence in managing aggression, and access to relevant training. Findings: Verbal aggression was most commonly reported, followed by physical violence and the fear of potential incidents. These experiences were strongly associated with acute stress responses. Although many respondents felt confident in their ability to manage aggression, stress symptoms often impaired emotional regulation and risk assessment. Notably, many participants had received limited or outdated formal training in aggression management, despite frequent exposure. These findings suggest that confidence alone does not equate to preparedness, and unmanaged stress responses may compromise safety and decision-making. Applications: This study highlights the pressing need to support social workers in managing both the physiological and cognitive aspects of stress during aggressive encounters. Future research should not only evaluate the effectiveness of existing training but also investigate how aggression-related stress arises and affects professional performance. Such insights are crucial for developing more comprehensive training programs that move beyond technical de-escalation skills to include stress regulation, real-world simulations, and reflective practice, better aligning with the complex realities of contemporary social work.