The Practice of Research in Social Work

The Practice of Research in Social Work positions research as an essential tool for effective, ethical social work practice—not just a set of methods to master. Rather than treating research as abstract or disconnected from the field, this Fifth Edition shows students how to evaluate interventions, programs, and policies using real examples drawn from social work research and practice. Throughout the book, students develop the critical skills needed to locate, interpret, and assess research findings—and, just as importantly, to judge their applicability for diverse client populations and practice contexts. By integrating ethics, diversity, and evidence-based practice across chapters, The Practice of Research in Social Work reflects how research is actually used in contemporary social work, helping students move beyond methods toward informed, reflective, and context-responsive practice.