Design and implementation of the siso scale to measure situations of social difficulty. Diagnostic tool for social work

Abstract

Aim. To design an assessment scale of situations of social difficulty to support social workers' professional diagnosis. Methods. The design followed a participatory process according to a concentric ring structure. Based on a literature review, a scale was developed composed of 6 dimensions and 25 items graded according to the intensity of situations of social difficulty. Results. Aspects explaining the high level of use of the scale are presented: conceptual design and validation; co-construction focusing on service to professionals; and management decisions. Conclusions. The designed scale does not replace a professional diagnosis, it complements it; it allows harmonising the evaluation criteria, focalising on intervention areas and assessing the change processes. The use of scales during interventions contributes to reinforcing Social Work as a scientific discipline and professional practice.