Technology in Social Work with Adolescents and Young Adults: A Systematic Review
摘要
Information and Communication Technologies can serve as facilitating tools for Social Work interventions with adolescents and young people. This systematic review aims to analyse and synthesise the use of digital tools in Social Work with this population. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 protocol, with searches carried out in Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO. Initially, 2,720 studies were identified, and after applying the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 23 articles met all requirements for inclusion in the review. The results were organised into four categories: a) Access to and participation in social services, b) Research and diagnosis, c) Intervention and social support, and d) Evaluation of Digital Social Work. The findings show that ICTs enhance accessibility, promote participation, strengthen personal autonomy, and facilitate professional accompaniment. ICTs transform Social Work with young people by improving access to social services, identifying needs and risks, and supporting the transition to adulthood. Digital platforms and social media expand communication, foster autonomy, support socio-labour integration, and promote psychosocial well-being by creating safe, anonymous, and participatory spaces. However, persistent digital divides and ethical risks related to privacy, inequality, and data protection require critical, inclusive, and ethically responsible strategies. The review concludes that future digital Social Work interventions must actively involve young people, professionals, and institutions in the design, access, evaluation, and adaptation of technological tools to advance towards a more inclusive, participatory, and transformative practice in the digital era.