International Review for Human and Natural Sciences
International Review for Human and Natural Sciences The Revue Internationale des Sciences humaines et naturelles focuses on the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It focuses in particular on those disciplines that deal with the human community and its roles in contemporary times.
TEACHERS 50+ AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE – NOTES FROM PILOT STUDIES
Background: This article presents the empirical findings of an exploratory pilot study investigating the attitudes of senior pedagogical staff (aged 50 and above, conceptualized as the "digital immigrant" cohort) toward the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational environments. Contextualized within the demographic shift of an aging teaching workforce and the concurrent challenges of hyper-digitization. Methods: The study assessed the cognitive, affective, and behavioral components of these attitudes utilizing the Attitudes Towards AI in Education Scale (SPAI-E) on a sample of 88 practitioners. Results: The data reveal a predominantly neutral attitudinal stance, marginally skewed toward skepticism, accompanied by significant intragenerational variance; notably, educators over the age of 60 exhibit a more pronounced conservative disposition compared to the 50–59 demographic. Notwithstanding the presence of cognitive and affective barriers, such as technostress, the subjects demonstrate an elevated behavioral readiness to engage in practical applications and professional development. Conclusion: The findings underscore the pragmatic orientation of senior educators, concluding that the optimal integration of AI necessitates targeted institutional scaffolding aimed at cultivating digital resilience.
Copyright (c) 2026 International Review for Human and Natural Sciences
ON THE MIGRATION POLICY OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Background: Migration is a natural phenomenon not only among various animal species, including humans, but also among plants. It occurs naturally, voluntarily, or is often forced by various circumstances and causes. Under certain circumstances and from a certain perspective, however, it also appears as a socially undesirable phenomenon. Such a view of migration has gradually developed among part of the European public as a result of the negative manifestations of uncontrolled illegal immigration into the European Union. The Slovak Republic, the nation-state of the Slovaks, is historically an open and tolerant society. In the 9th century, the ancestors of today’s Hungarians - whose state still exists in Central Europe - were received relatively peacefully into the territory inhabited by the ancient Slovaks since the turn of the 5th and 6th centuries. Later, colonies of Germans, Rusyns, Roma, and members of other nationalities also formed in Slovakia. Conclusion: The Slovaks’ rich and instructive experiences with immigration remain part of their cultural heritage to this day. This is reflected in the intent, direction, and content of the Slovak Republic’s current state migration policy. From the perspective of Slovak citizens, this particularly concerns its practical security, legal, cultural, and religious aspects.
AI ADOPTION IN REGIONAL SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE
Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important component of the digital transformation of public services, including social work. Its use offers opportunities for administrative support, more efficient information processing and the expansion of professional tools, while also raising ethical and organisational concerns. Methods: The research was conducted as a quantitative questionnaire survey on a sample of 83 social workers in the Rimavská Sobota district in Slovakia. The study examined respondents’ age, workplace location, client age structure, form of social service provision and level of experience with AI. The hypotheses were tested using Spearman’s correlation test, the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: Social workers use AI mainly for text creation, information retrieval, administration and preparation of documentation. A weak negative statistically significant relationship was confirmed between respondents’ age and their level of experience with AI (r = -0.348; p = 0.001). Statistically significant differences were identified according to workplace location and the form of social service provision. Differences according to the age group of clients were not confirmed. Discussion: The findings suggest that AI adoption in social work is shaped by both individual and contextual factors. Higher levels of experience are associated with urban workplaces and outpatient services, whereas residential services and rural settings show lower levels of experience. Ethical concerns, personal data protection and lack of practical skills remain significant barriers. Conclusion: AI can be a useful supportive tool in social work, particularly in administrative and information-related activities. Its implementation must be accompanied by systematic education, internal guidelines and the preservation of professional judgement, human oversight and client dignity.
artificial intelligence, social work, social workers, social services, ethics, regional differences.
REGULATION HAT HOLDS THIGNS BACK: THE EU AI ACT AND ITS ASYMMETRIC IMPACTS ON EDUCATIONAL CONTENT CREATORS IN THE CZECH AND SLOVAK CONTEXTS
Background: Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of the European Parliament and of the Council on artificial intelligence (hereinafter the AI Act) enters a crucial implementation phase for the education sector in August 2026. In this paper, we analyse the structural asymmetries that this regulation brings, particularly for smaller and emerging actors in the education sector in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Results: We argue that compliance costs and documentation obligations, although a negligible item in the overall costs for large multinational operators of AI systems, become a prohibitive burden for micro and small players, which may significantly slow down or prevent their innovative activities. Using a case study of the educational platform Kurzologie.cz, we illustrate the specific implementation challenges faced by a Czech educational provider in 2026. Conclusion: We propose a complementary model in which external regulation works in conjunction with the internal ethical self-regulation of actors, with an emphasis on the proportionality of implementation requirements relative to the size and capacity of the actor. In conclusion, we formulate specific recommendations for the national implementation of the AI Act in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
SUDDEN BEREAVEMENT AND CRISIS INTERVENTION: VULNERABILITY OF LONELY INDIVIDUALS AND CHALLENGES FOR SOCIAL WORK
Introduction: This study addresses the issue of crisis intervention following the sudden loss of a loved one among individuals experiencing loneliness. Bereavement, particularly when unexpected, represents a significant psychological burden and may lead to increased vulnerability, especially in individuals lacking adequate social support. Methods: The research was conducted using a quantitative design through a questionnaire survey (N = 185). The instrument focused on emotional experiences, perceived loneliness, sources of support, and the evaluation of the quality of provided assistance. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods, including chi-square tests. Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of negative emotional responses, particularly sadness (94.1%), loneliness (80.0%), and helplessness (75.1%). Informal support sources, such as family (78.9%) and friends (68.1%), were used most frequently, while professional services, especially social workers (13.0%), were significantly underutilized. Statistical analysis confirmed that these differences were significant (p < .05). Additionally, a considerable proportion of respondents evaluated the quality of informal support as insufficient. Discussion: The results highlight the increased vulnerability of lonely individuals and emphasize the dominant role of informal support networks despite their limited effectiveness. The underutilization of professional services suggests systemic gaps in crisis intervention. The study underscores the need for improving accessibility, strengthening the role of social workers, and enhancing interdisciplinary cooperation in bereavement care.
SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL PHILOSOPHY FROM LEO XIII. TO BENEDICT XV.
Background: Social work in the 19th and 20th centuries went through a transformation. In the 19th century, social work was often focused on charitable activities and voluntary organizations that provided assistance to the poor and needy. In the 20th century, it was significantly professionalized and became systematic, with an emphasis on training and a scientific approach to the work of social exclusion and inequalities. Results: New institutions were created, such as social services and agencies, which focused on providing help and support to the most vulnerable groups of the population. Social philosophy in the 19th and 20th centuries was characterized by similar approaches and ideas. The 19th century saw the birth of major social theories and ideologies, such as Marxism, liberalism, conservatism, and anarchism. Conclusions: Marxism focuses on the analysis of the capitalist system and the working class, while liberalism emphasized individual freedom and the market economy.
COMMUNITY WORK MODELS AND PROVIDING LEISURE ACTIVITIES
The text focuses on models of community work, their characteristics, and their application in social practice, based on the concept of Botek et al. (2017). It presents eight models of community work that differ in strategy, worker roles, and target groups, yet often overlap in practice. Particular attention is given to the model of community planning of social services as a tool for citizen participation in local community development. The paper further discusses the role, skills, ethical principles, and competencies of community workers. The final section presents community centers as spaces for community development and leisure activities through various forms of therapy and engagement, contributing to social inclusion, personal growth, and an improved quality of life for community members.
: community work, community planning, community worker, community center, social services, leisure activities, therapy, community development
EMERGENT LITERACY AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF GRAPHOMOTOR SKILLS IN CHIDREN IN PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION THROUGHT EXPERIENCE-BASED LEARNING
Background: In recent years, pedagogical practice has increasingly emphasized that children should acquire new knowledge, skills, and experiences through their own activities and experiences, and that they should have space for self-realization, self-expression, and self-actualization. Methods: In this paper, we highlight the importance of emergent literacy and the development of children's graphomotor skills through the application of innovative and activating methods in creative educational activities. Results: We present practical examples of working with children, where we develop graphomotor skills through the application of innovative activating methods, experiential learning, and their own activity as part of the daily activities of children in kindergarten, which are good preparation for writing. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the use of innovative and experiential teaching methods significantly contributes to the development of graphomotor skills and supports children’s readiness for the process of learning to write in primary education.
COMPARISON OF UNEMPLOYMENT IN POLAND AND SLOVAKIA
Aim: This study aimed to compare unemployment trends in Poland and Slovakia between 2024 and 2025, using both registered and harmonized (Eurostat/ILO) indicators. Methods: Monthly data from December 2024 to July 2025 were collected from the Polish Central Statistical Office (GUS), the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, the Slovak Labour Office, and Eurostat. Both national and harmonized unemployment rates were analyzed to identify trends and differences. Results: Poland exhibited lower harmonized unemployment rates (2.6–3.0%) compared to Slovakia (5.0–5.5%), while registered rates were similar (5.1–5.4% for both countries). Trends were stable, with minor monthly fluctuations. The gap between registered and harmonized rates highlights methodological differences, while cross-country differences reflect stronger labor market performance in Poland. Discussion: Differences are influenced by economic structure, labor mobility, and regional disparities. Harmonized data suggest Poland has higher labor market absorption and lower structural unemployment. Conclusion: Poland showed lower harmonized unemployment than Slovakia, despite similar registered rates. The study emphasizes the importance of harmonized measures for cross-country labor market analysis.
unemployment, labor market, Poland, Slovakia, Eurostat, GUS, registered unemployment, harmonized unemployment, comparative analysis
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ADAPTATION OF SENIORS IN THE NURSING HOME
The article examines factors influencing the adaptation of seniors in the Frýdek-Místek Nursing Home. The main objective is to identify key elements that affect how seniors adjust upon admission. Aging is also associated with reduced flexibility, making adaptation to new environments a critical concern for care providers. The study was conducted at the Frýdek-Místek Nursing Home using a qualitative approach. Six participants were purposively selected for semi-structured, individual interviews. Following transcription, the data were analyzed using open coding to identify initial concepts, followed by axial coding to establish relationships between categories. Findings reveal that adaptation is influenced by multiple interconnected factors. The senior’s family plays a crucial role, providing emotional support and continuity. Staff support and the approach of caregivers, particularly communication and interpersonal engagement, significantly affect adjustment. Additionally, the physical and social environment of the nursing home contributes to the ease with which seniors adapt, highlighting the importance of a welcoming, structured, and familiar setting. These results underscore the need for a holistic approach to admission processes, emphasizing family involvement, staff training in communication, and environmental considerations to promote successful adaptation.
nursing, senior care, institutional adaptation, seniors.
senior care, social work, social services
EXPLORING LONELINESS EXPERIENCED IN OLDER AGE IN THE HOME ENVIRONMENT
Background: Loneliness is a prevalent and multidimensional phenomenon among older adults, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and dimensions of loneliness among seniors living at home, with a focus on gender differences and the impact of living arrangements on emotional loneliness. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative design was applied to a sample of 156 seniors aged 67–75 years residing in private households. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing emotional, social, and behavioral dimensions of loneliness. Results: The results revealed significant gender differences across all dimensions of loneliness. Women reported higher levels of emotional and social loneliness, including feelings of emptiness, lack of close family conversations, limited shared values, and fewer perceived sources of support. Men more frequently reported lack of trust in others and reduced engagement with the broader social environment. Seniors living alone long-term showed higher emotional loneliness than those living with a partner or widowed short-term. Conclusion: In conclusion, loneliness among home-dwelling seniors is influenced by both gender and social context, highlighting the need for targeted, gender- and context-sensitive interventions addressing emotional, social, and behavioral aspects of loneliness.
ageing; loneliness; emotional dimension; seniors.
COMMUNITY – A LOST MYTH…? HUMAN SECURITY IN TIMES OF SEPARATION
The community appears to be a point of reference for man, his orientation and self-determination. The individual finds and perceives himself through what is supra-individual, what is community and social. Through the prism of community, man shapes an essential sense of security, founded on his self-image reflected in the multitude of co-existences. Being among others, being with others becomes a carrier of meaning; the other person is the one who expresses and tells the world at the same time, creating the world at the same time. In this way, a myth is born. Myth (mythos) - a word, a story that foundations a structure recognized by man - a network of mutual connections and references, a relational world known to man, ordered by the power of words: the world of interpersonal relationships and the relationship of man to external reality. Organizing reality through narratives introduced into it also tamed the world, making it a place of safe existence. Over time, the growing story absorbed/subordinated man and people in their relational relationship - it was transformed into a myth of community, a myth necessarily exposed to perdition.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Review for Human and Natural Sciences
A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE PROBLEMS OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE ROLE OF THE SOCIAL CURATOR FOR CHILDREN IN THE CONTEXT OF CRITICAL THINKING
The data collected was analysed, and subcategories and categories were created based on open coding. In the secondary interpretation phase of the qualitative data, axial coding was applied, and the interrelationships of the categories were anchored by the paradigmatic model. Results: The results of the qualitative analysis research highlighted the negative connotations of social curators in relation to their administrative burden and the performance of their administrative role in social intervention. In terms of emotions experienced in the context of administrative tasks, participants declared strongly negative emotions. Conclusion: The starting point to change the attitude of social curators, to the performance of the administrative role and the administration as part of the intervention, is in the reduction of administrative tasks, the elimination of duplication of registers and records, as well as in the strengthening of work teams by tribal employees and the delegation of competences to project workers, but also in the use of supervision to eliminate the manifestations of the burnout syndrome and to contribute to the achievement of well-being. This change requires the use of critical thinking.
administrative role, critical thinking, qualitative analysis, social curator.
A MULTI-TIER MODEL OF SCHOOL SAFETY IN SECONDARY EDUCATION
A safe educational environment in secondary schools is a prerequisite for high-quality instruction, personal development and the mental well-being of both students and staff. In contemporary conditions, school safety can no longer be conceptualised solely through physical protection and socio-emotional climate, but must also explicitly include the digital and cyber dimension. Recent research highlights that digital transformation in education significantly increases exposure to cyber threats, disinformation and hybrid risks, which directly affect school institutions as part of the public sector. This contribution situates school safety theoretically across the physical, socio-emotional and digital dimensions, explains the legislative framework in the Slovak Republic (SR) and the Republic of Poland (PL), and synthesises key empirical findings from domestic and international research. On the basis of this evidence, we propose a three-tier implementation model of interventions that integrates educational, organisational and cybersecurity measures and presents a practical framework for secondary school practice.
safe educational environment; school safety; cybersecurity; resilience; wellbeing.
A MULTI-LEVEL MODEL OF SAFETY IN UPPER SECONDARY EDUCATION
This international study examines the determinants of teachers’ self-efficacy (perceived competence) in both pre-service preparation and in-service practice when teaching digital technologies to school pupils in Poland and Slovakia. The research investigated the relationships among personal computer competence, outcome expectancy of instruction, perceived digital literacy, and self-efficacy for teaching digital technologies, with particular emphasis on the dimension of school safety (rule compliance, management of disruptive behaviour, safe digital practices, and well-being). The theoretical framework is grounded in the social cognitive concept of self-efficacy, distinguishing between personal efficacy and outcome expectancy. Data were collected using a snowball sampling method through an online questionnaire and complemented by a content analysis of portfolios from compulsory teaching practice. The research design is qualimetric (quantitative–qualitative). The results of the regression models indicate the dominance of personal computer competence as a predictor of self-efficacy across research groups and highlight the importance of perceived digital literacy, particularly among in-service teachers. From the perspective of school safety, higher levels of self-efficacy are associated with the ability to guide pupils toward understanding rules, reduce disruptive behaviour, and stabilize a safe classroom climate, which is especially critical in linguistically and socially heterogeneous school environments.
self-efficacy, digital technologies, digital literacy, school safety, school rules, portfolio, OSTES
SELECTED LEARNING STYLES AND COGNITIVE STYLES IN FURTHER PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION UNDER CONDITIONS OF DIGITALISATION OF THE ECONOMY
The digitalisation of the economy requires the development of educational activities with focus on knowledge and skills that support innovation in ICTs. The aim of this paper is to identify the type of further education participant based on Fleming’s learning styles (VARK learning styles), and to characterise the achievement of set educational goals in the development of ICT knowledge and skills, broken down into cognitive, psychomotor, and affective educational goals in further professional education, and to focus on the applicability of some learning and teaching styles in continuing professional education. The focus of analysis is on two higher education fields of study, namely Social, economic and legal sciences (6213 – Economics and Management) and Education (7605 – Teacher Training and Educational Sciences), pursued by learners who are economically active in sections P – Education of the Statistical classification of economic activities SK NACE Rev. 2, 2007. Basic concepts and selected learning and cognitive styles are explained in the theoretical part of the research paper. Results of the questionnaire survey carried out from April to June 2025 and distributed in person or online are presented in the paper. Replies of 200 respondents from three countries (the Slovak Republic, the Czech Republic and the Hellenic Republic) were processed prevailingly by means of statistical methods and then verbally interpreted. The Jamovi, Version 2.3.26 statistical software and MS Excel were used for data processing. To analyse data frequency tables, contingency tables, descriptive statistics, and correlation coefficients were applied. Results of analysis show that most participants belong to visual types. Respondents’ replies indicate the learning style models are mainly applied in the field of study Teacher Training and Educational Sciences. Kolb’s model is applied in the field of study 6213. When verifying correlation dependences, the relationship between the fulfilment of cognitive goals of education the visual participant type was corroborated as well as in the achievement of psychomotor goals of education and the reading/writing participant type. The research paper is written in accordance with the aims of the primary research project VEGA No. 1/0198/25 “Emergence, development and sustainability of innovative enterprises”.
Cognitive style, learning style (LS), model of learning style, employee education, further professional education
THE DEVELOPMENT OF INDUCTIVE REASONING AS A FUNCTION OF SELECTED FACTORS
In this study, we examine the measurement of inductive reasoning in primary and secondary school students who belong to the Hungarian minority in Slovakia using a Cattel’s Culture Fair Test (CFT). The main objective of our research was to determine the dynamics of inductive reasoning development among primary and secondary school students belonging to the Hungarian minority in Slovakia (in grades 4th, 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th) and to examine the effects of certain background factors. We found that the CFT 20-R differentiates well according to the age groups studied and is suitable for measuring inductive reasoning ability. Based on the results obtained, it appears that inductive reasoning develops continuously until the 10th grade, after which it seems to stagnate. If we consider the type of school attended by the students participating in the study, we can conclude that the most dynamic periods of inductive thinking development occur during periods of transition in the school system: between lower and upper grades, and between elementary school and high school. According to our study, the most effective type of school for the development of inductive reasoning is the eight-year grammar school, while the secondary school system also develops it effectively, but at a lower level. However, in the case of students attending four-year secondary schools, a decline can be observed in this area. Among the background factors, we examined the impact of not only the type of school attended by the students, but also their gender and social-economic status.
ON THE STATUS QUO OF THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT IN AUTUMN 2023
The United Nations Organization is a project of international peace cooperation undertaken by the peaceful nations of the world, which have learned from history. Throughout its history, this global international organisation has prevented many international armed conflicts, avoided many, and ended many. Despite the enormous human, moral, and material sacrifices made in all the wars fought around the world, it is clear that a part of the world’s population has not yet learned the lessons of war history. The persistence of war conflicts between nations in the 21st century is a testimony to this fact. One of the most recent armed conflicts to erupt and threaten the entire world is the genocidal war waged between the Palestinian-Arab organisation Hamas and the State of Israel. This article highlights some of the stages of its emergence, its course, and its possible implications for world peace.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Review for Human and Natural Sciences
PLAY AS A MEANS OF COMMUNICATION OF THE CHILD WITH ART
In art, as in other artistic-educational activities, we find psychophysical release, equally in the role of passive recipient, active performer, or even on an expressive level, through our creation. In this publication, we seek to emphasize the variability of play that can be integrated into the art-educational activities of preschool children. Music is very close to the dramatic, and therefore verbal, arts. The paper provides practical examples of working with music and motion, allowing for the creative embodiment and imitation of dramatic situations inherent in music. At the same time, it is important to create space in education for individuals to gain a positive relationship with the arts through their activity, improvisation and personal experiences.
PASTORAL CARE OF SOCIALLY VULNERABLE GROUPS
The article Pastoral Care of Socially Vulnerable Groups focuses on the meaning and importance of pastoring socially vulnerable individuals. It outlines the important points of this pastoral care, including the provision of support and care to people in distress. It presents different perspectives, methods and practices in terms of pastoral care. It sees as central the importance of building a relationship of trust and a holistic approach to individuals at risk of social exclusion. The paper highlights the central role of pastoral care in supporting those facing poverty, homelessness, addiction and other forms of social exclusion. It looks at opportunities for social inclusion, alleviating stigma and promoting awareness of one’s values through faith and inclusion in the Christian community. Explores the opportunities and challenges facing the pastoral care of socially vulnerable individuals in today’s social environment.
USEFULNESS OF THE THEORY OF THE ORGANIZATIONAL CYCLE IN MANAGERIAL AND SOCIAL WORK
The activity of individuals is very important in the organizational process of management as well as in social work. If we are going to talk about success, we must also talk about how the work will be organized, whether the activities are thought out and planned, how the plans are implemented and what the control mechanism is. Work has an impact on the effectiveness of individuals.
HISTORICAL STAGES OF THE PASTORAL CARE OF THE MINORITES IN SPIŠSK ŠTVRTOK AND LEVOČA
The topic of the study is the activity of the Order of Franciscan Friars Minor – the Minorites in Levoča and Spišský Štvrtok. In the introduction, the author provides a historical overview of the establishment of this religious order, and then proceeds to describe the characteristics of the period during which the Franciscans arrived in Spiš and settled in Levoča and Spišský Štvrtok. The study highlights the significance of the monasteries constructed by the Minorites in both localities. A period of promising spiritual and cultural development of the order was violently interrupted by the Night of the Barbarians, the closure of the monasteries, and the deportation of the Franciscans. After 1989, the activity of the Franciscan Friars Minor in Slovakia and Spiš was renewed.
The preservation of human society, and even more so its development, cannot do without further investment. It is enough to mention the current challenges in the form of reconstruction and construction of transport infrastructure, dealing with the energy future, the massive development of technology, as well as dealing with the consequences of various natural disasters and ensuring defense. To ensure the preparation and implementation of such investments, a contractual type of work contract will be primarily used. The regulation of the work (according to Sections 2586 - 2635 of the Civil Code) eliminates the dualism of the regulation of non-commercial and commercial contracts for work. The basis for the new draft regulation is the commercial code regulation, considering some foreign adaptations, because the concept of a contract of work in the former Civil Code followed its original concept of 1964 and the model of the Civil Code of 1950. In certain respects, account is also taken of certain provisions of the former International Trade Code (ITA), the normative structures of which were adopted by the Commercial Code, but which were often formulated more precisely and clearly in the ITA. The current issues of the works contract are the focus of this treatise.
Volunteering represents a significant social phenomenon that fosters civic engagement and counteracts social isolation in contemporary European societies. Despite the growing bureaucratic pressures that limit public participation, many individuals continue to demonstrate altruism, creativity, and responsibility through charitable work. The interdisciplinary nature of volunteering—analyzed by fields such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, pedagogy, and theology—contributes to the complexity of defining it. In this study, volunteering is understood as professionally organized, selfless, and regular service provided to individuals or groups in need, independent of familial or personal ties. The text further examines the demographic and social characteristics of volunteers and highlights key forms of engagement, including volunteering in NGOs, sports volunteering, and hospice service. Finally, the study examines the motives and benefits associated with charitable work, noting that although volunteering is unpaid, it can still yield reciprocal or developmental benefits for those involved.
SOCIAL COUNSELING AS A FORM OF CHARITABLE ASSISTANCE
Charitable counseling and volunteer engagement play a crucial role in supporting individuals and communities in need. This study explores the theoretical foundations, forms, and practical applications of charitable and social counseling within nonprofit and religious organizations. It examines the role of volunteers in delivering services, providing social support, and enhancing the effectiveness of charitable initiatives. The interdisciplinary nature of charitable counseling is highlighted, encompassing perspectives from social work, pedagogy, theology, psychology, and management. Key factors such as volunteer motivation, demographic characteristics, and types of engagement, including NGO work, hospice volunteering, and community-based initiatives, are analyzed to demonstrate how structured support and professional guidance contribute to both the welfare of beneficiaries and the development of civic responsibility among volunteers.
THE INFLUENCE OF CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS ON THEDEVELOPMENT OF HEALTHCARE IN POLAND: ANALYSIS ONTHE EXAMPLE OF MYŚLENICE
Charitable support plays a significant role in the development of the Polish healthcare system, especially in the area of providing modern medical equipment and improving the quality of care in hospitals. A significant initiative in this area is the Great Orchestra of Christmas Relief (WOŚP) Foundation, which has been contributing to the modernization of healthcare facilities through nationwide collections for a long time. The foundation’s contributions have enabled many hospitals, including the hospital in Myślenice, to acquire key life-saving devices and improve the accessibility of healthcare. In addition to WOŚP, financial donations, volunteering, community collections and partnerships with public institutions also play an important role, which together form the systemic support for hospitals. These forms of assistance represent an important element of solidarity and enable healthcare facilities to respond to the challenges of modern medicine.
SELECTED ASPECTS OF SELF-CARE FOR SOCIAL WORKERS
Intrinsic motivation for social work needs to be strengthened much more nowadays than in the past. An example is the Daughters of Charity, who drew their motivation from their formation, their spiritual motivation, a systematic spiritual life, and self-care that had spiritual foundations and depth. The principles of self-care and self-relationship, which influence motivation to help others, have an important position in working life. After completing the intervention program in the implemented research, it is important for social workers working in the non-profit sector and state administration to work on improving self-care through selected aspects in their daily and working lives. These aspects result from exercises through the principles of gestalt therapy and person-centred therapy. The principles of the aforementioned therapies can be beneficial for the area of self-development, self-acceptance, and self-awareness of social workers. Intervention programs should include self-care competencies in the daily practice of the professional and personal lives of social workers.
Self-care. Social work. Intrinsic motivation. Therapy.
LONG-TERM UNEMPLOYED AND ACTIVE MEASURES ON THE LABOR MARKET
In the contribution we point out the risk groups of the unemployed and in the empirical part we find out the effect of long-term unemployment on the unemployed, also the possibilities of realization of an unemployed person. We define active measures on the labor market.
The paper presents the importance of didactics in the pastoral process. It presents different perspectives on didactic methods in the proclamation of the Word of God. The right choice of didactic methods has a key role in the process of transmitting the faith and promoting the spiritual growth of individuals and church communities. It is essential to communicate the faith in as many diverse ways as possible to reach the widest possible audience, especially in today’s world, where the Church faces numerous challenges. Didactic practices are not just a theoretical matter but a practical approach that has the potential to transform the life of the Church.
1700 YEARS SINCE THE FIRST COUNCIL OF NICAEA (325)
In the first three centuries after the birth of Jesus Christ, the Church experienced a time of severe persecution. The bloody repression forced the early witnesses and martyrs of the faith to hide in the catacombs and to be as cautious as possible. It was practically impossible to convene an ecumenical council addressing all the local churches. Mainly, only episcopal synods at a local level or assemblies covering several local churches were convened. Therefore, the First Council of Nicaea was historically groundbreaking in its very realisation and in the resolution of theological disputes. The fundamental decision of the Council of Nicaea was the unambiguous formulation of the Creed but also the uncompromising rejection of the theological heresies of the time. Important conclusions of this ecumenical Council were also the provisions - canons on church discipline, sacraments and practical liturgy