Using Evidence in Social Work Practice: Behavioral Perspectives

This important anthology reinforces the value of evidence-based practice. While the term evidence-based practice has only recently gained currency, it continues the social work tradition of applying scientific methods to practice.

In their introductory chapter, the editors stress the vital need for practitioners to share their research and experience with colleagues. There is an overwhelming body of literature in the field and to use it to the best advantage it is essential to learn the skills of critical thinking. The authors help the reader to evaluate the many sources of information, realize that even empirical knowledge is subject to revision, and balance conflicting views in order to make reasonable choices appropriate for one's own practice.

The scholars contributing to this work have helped shape the definition of contemporary social work practice. Their clear, concise chapters range from discussions about ethics, the nature of evidence, and the role of theory, through the addressing of widely varying, specific client problems, to selected issues that must be dealt with inside the social work system itself. Suitable for use in a variety of practice courses, this book will retain its value long after graduation as a source of helpful guidance and of lively discussion.

Harold Briggs (PhD, AM, University of Chicago) is professor in the School of Social Work at Portland State University. Professor Briggs has practice experience in performance management in human services, community integration of clients with developmental disabilities, child welfare, and family support in children's mental health. He teaches in the areas of community based programs, program management, and research. His research interests include performance management in human services, community integration of clients with developmental disabilities, child welfare, and family support in children's mental health.

Tina Rzepnicki (PhD, AM, University of Chicago) is a distinguished scholar of social work practice. She is the David and Mary Winton Green Professor in the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago, the director of the Center for Social Work Practice, and principal investigator of the Program Practices Investigation Project with the Office of Inspector General of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. In addition, Professor Rzepnicki recently piloted the application of root cause analysis to errors in decision making in human services, particularly errors that result in severe injury or death of a child. Widely published in the area of child welfare and social work clinical practice, she has co-authored four books.