Research Centre Member Contributes a Chapter to an International Monograph
28. April 2025Dr. Magdalena Hanková from the Research Centre of FHS has become a member of an international team of authors and contributed a chapter to the monograph entitled „Empowerment v sociálnej práci: Koncepcia práce so sociálne exkludovanými“, recently published by Grada Slovakia s.r.o.
The publication focuses on the concept of empowerment in the context of social work with vulnerable populations, such as residents of marginalized Roma settlements, older adults, at-risk youth, and persons with disabilities. Dr. Hanková’s chapter addresses the topical issue of working with sexuality in residential social care settings as a form of empowerment for people with intellectual disabilities in fulfilling their sexual needs.
Drawing on both domestic and international research, as well as her longstanding professional interest in the field, the author first highlights the specific aspects of sexuality in individuals with intellectual disabilities living in residential care. The chapter also examines the barriers that may hinder empowerment in this area and offers concrete recommendations for effectively addressing the sexual needs of clients with intellectual disabilities within social services.
The monograph provides a thematically and internationally significant overview of the application of the empowerment concept in social work with various target groups. Owing to its broad scope, it is a valuable resource not only for students of social work and related disciplines, but also for professionals working in social services, community centres, and other specialised institutions.
