This paper concentrates on the area of professional assistance, especially the prevention of socio-pathological phenomena in children and adolescents. The theoretical part introduces the history and current concept of altruistic behaviour, defines the basic social areas and activities for which assisting another human being is characteristic. Attention is also devoted to the services of the helping sector and its clientele. The introduction also includes the analysis of the assumptions and demands on the performance of helping profession, its hidden difficulties and the prevention of unprofessional conduct. Social deviations are a natural part of every society. They can be carried not only by adults, but also by children and adolescents. The causes, course and consequences of socially unacceptable behaviour are studied by professionals to whom the final chapter of the theoretical part of this paper is dedicated. The practical part complements the characteristics of selected helping professions listed in the theoretical part on the basis of statements obtained under the expert survey conducted among the individual professionals. It also provides their comparison on the basis of predefined specifics.