Research plays a crucial role in the realm of modern social work. Proper collection and analysis of social facts are essential in addressing social problems. For this purpose, social research is a valuable tool. Social research involves a systematic approach to uncovering new facts, understanding their connections, explaining causes and effects, and identifying the social laws that govern them. We gather concrete data and facts through thorough research. Indeed, social research is a systematic endeavor to acquire fresh insights into different aspects of society and social phenomena. Research is often utilized as a supplementary method in the field of social work. The scope of research in social work involves a wide range of treatment and rehabilitation methods, as well as identifying social needs and utilizing community resources.
According to the W. A. Friedlander “Social work research is the systematic, critical investigation of questions in the social welfare field with the purpose of yielding answer to problems of social work and extending and generalizing social work knowledge and concepts”.
Research in social work can contribute to political goals by addressing the various social, organizational, and cultural disparities that result in inequalities and interconnected forms of oppression. These disparities can be related to factors such as gender, ethnicity, race, class, culture, age, disability, sexual preference, and even geographical location. Structural inequalities, also referred to as social disparities, are a focus of social work as it strives to promote social justice. Research in the field of social work has the potential to make a meaningful impact on society by examining the individual and collective experiences of structural inequality and proposing effective strategies for bringing about positive change. However, in order to gain the recognition we desire from decision-makers, it is crucial that our research is of the utmost quality and intellectually rigorous.
Areas of Social Work Research
The areas of social work research may be broadly categorized as follows:
- Studies to establish, identify and measure the need for service.
- To measure the services offered as they relate to needs.
- To test, gauge and evaluate results of social work intervention.
- To list the efficacy of specific techniques of offering services.
- Studies in methodology of social work.
The Relationship between Research and Practice
Research is about seeking knowledge with a purpose. We aim to expand this concept to include the ethical and political aspects that are crucial in social work research. According to Everitt et al. (1992: vii), there is a concept called ‘research-mindedness’ that emphasizes the connection between research and practice based on specific intellectual and professional principles. Below, you will find a summary of the three principles of ‘research-mindedness’.
- Embracing a participatory and developmental approach to social work, rather than one focused on social control.
- Promoting anti-oppressive values.
- A true collaboration between practitioners and the individuals they support (Everitt et al., 1992: vii).
Marlow (2001) explained the following relationship between research and practice;
| Practice | Research |
| Forming partnerships | Using participatory methods |
| Articulating challenges | Deciding on the question |
| Defining directions | Developing the question |
| Identifying strengths | Collecting the data, sampling and design |
| Analyzing resource capabilities | Organizing and analyzing the data |
| Framing solutions | Research writing |
| Activating resources, creating alliances and expanding opportunities | Utilization of research findings |
| Recognizing success and integrating gains | Evaluation of research |
Marlow (2001) explores the connection between research and social work practice, aiming to alleviate any concerns about social work research by highlighting its reliance on familiar knowledge, skills, and processes used by social work practitioners.
Professionalism and Social Work Research
In addition to recognizing the importance of research in the field of social work, whether it is in providing direct services or shaping policies, it is also essential to consider its role in defining professionalism. The controversies surrounding claims of professionalism in social work often revolve around the perceived relevance and necessity of research. Certainly, these controversies revolve around the intersection of knowledge and power within various professions. Therefore, it is important to consider the ethical and political aspects of research and how they may impact various forms of professionalism that social work may cover.
Research as a Tool for Achieving Social Justice
For some, there is a strong connection between research and professionalism in the field of social work. If the goal of social work is to promote human well-being, justice, and equality, then intellectual work and research play a crucial role in uncovering the systems and processes that contribute to inequality (Everitt et al., 1992: 3).
It is crucial to have a well-informed analysis before taking action in order to effectively pursue equality. Although social values and goals continue to shape the professional agenda, research has become an essential tool in guiding efforts towards these objectives.
Research-minded Practice
Research-minded practice focuses on analyzing social needs and resources, as well as creating, implementing, and evaluating strategies to address those needs. It operates without limitations from organizational or professional boundaries. Every aspect of life is carefully examined and analyzed. (Everitt et al., 1992: 4)
Contributions of Social Work Research
If we think about research in terms of how it can energize and educate professional behavior, we can start to identify some of the ways in which this can be seen. O’Connor et al. (1995: 222–3) provide several examples of the valuable contributions made by research in this regard:
- Expand our collective knowledge
- Address specific problems of concern
- Gather feedback on our services from our clients
- Identify social needs in a specific area
- Create a proposal
- Influence policymakers
- Mobilize individuals
- Advocate for the needs of individuals in society
- Amplify the voices of marginalized individuals
- Challenge the status quo
- Design and evaluate innovative solutions.
These contributions greatly impact the understanding of research politics and ethics, ensuring that research remains an essential and dynamic aspect of the new professionalism. Recognizing and valuing different perspectives (ways of knowing) and methodologies (ways of building knowledge) can enhance the impact of research in addressing the complex issues faced by professionals in the field of social work.
