Digitalization, stress, and social worker–client relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic

Summary The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the possibilities for people to interact and communicate. This article examines Swedish social workers’ experiences of extent which affected use digital tools in their work, whether this worker–client relationship stress levels. draws on a web survey (N = 541) via quantitative analysis responses qualitative answers an open-ended question. Findings Most respondents agreed experiencing increased with clients, skills using tools, more positive view relationship. However, levels had clients worsened, were divided. Age correlates positively levels, workers working assistance, as well women, are likely agree that worsened. Responses from questions highlight rapid shift where have gained video meetings can increase efficiency flexibility, but also work environment problems. Applications contributes useful insights into how during It support discussions future implementation after pandemic.