Abstract

The aim of this article is to present empirical evidence on the factors that facilitate the emergence of moral suffering and the consequences of the phenomenon in social workers published between 2018 and 2022. A systematic literature review was conducted in Scielo, Scopus and Web of Science, and eighteen articles were selected for analysis. Most of the articles are qualitative research reports and use interviews as data collection instruments. The studies primarily involve social workers working in the fields of healthcare and childhood, aiming to understand the factors influencing moral distress. Moral distress is conceptualised as arising from working conditions and organisational factors. The main consequences of the phenomenon are in the mental health of professionals and at the organisational level. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and burnout are reported, as well as organisational difficulties such as high turnover and the intention to quit the job. Despite the serious consequences of the phenomenon, evidence on this topic is scarce, particularly in Latin America, where no studies on the subject have been found. The precarious working conditions that social workers face in this geographical area show the need for further research. Explore the intricacies of moral distress among social workers spanning the years 2018-2022. Unveil empirical insights derived from a review conducted across Scielo, Scopus and Web of Science, analysing eighteen handpicked articles. Immerse yourself in qualitative research reports that employ interviews and focus groups, predominantly within the realms of healthcare and childhood. Investigate how moral distress originates from working conditions and organisational factors, exerting its influence on the mental well-being of social workers and the fabric of organisations. Uncover the aftermath: from individual challenges such as depression and burnout to organisational hurdles like high turnover. Despite the profound implications of this phenomenon, evidence remains scarce, particularly in Latin America, underscoring the imperative for further exploration given the precarious working conditions faced by social workers in this geographic expanse.