Social Work Research Theory

Social work research is a systematic and objective inquiry that utilizes the scientific method to solve human problems and creates new knowledge that is generally applicable to the social work profession (Grinnell, Wiliams, & Unrau, 2012). Findings from research in social work help social work professionals understand the impact it has on theory, practice, and policy formulation. The purpose of research in social work is divided into four categories: exploration, description, evaluation, and explanation (Grinnell, Wiliams, & Unrau, 2012). Those categories are typical used when there is a new study being conducted or for a study that requires more information. From research, social workers can apply their findings to real world problems their clients are facing.

According to EPAS, social work practitioners must strive for the use of evidence-based practices whenever possible. And the evidence they use is based off research studies that have used the scientific method to generate their research findings (Grinnell, Wiliams, & Unrau, 2012). Using evidence-based practice, social work researchers and practitioners can explore a vast amount of interventions that are used to provide a service to those in need. Research contributes to the development of knowledge and can be used to find evidence-based interventions that have been proven to be successful or unsuccessful while working with populations-at-risk (Grinnell, Wiliams, & Unrau, 2012). With research, social workers are also able to assist in advocating for policy reforms and social justice initiatives. Consider the following existing research example as it supports the importance of research in relation to the juvenile