bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy savings opportunities at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Authors: Unachukwu Godwin Ogechi
Published: June 2019

This paper examines the potential for energy savings in Nigerian higher institutions with particular reference to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Electricity consumption and cost profiles for a period of 10 years indicate a steady rise attributable to marginal improvement in staff living standards, increasing students’ enrolment, infrastructural development, preponderant use of inefficient electrical appliances and increasing business activities within the community. Investigations show that about 51% of the total electricity consumption occurs in staff housing units, 16% in students’ hostels and the balance in academic and public buildings on the campus. An internal energy policy, awareness creation and establishment of an energy management unit in the University system are some of the measures that can guarantee good savings. This paper estimates electricity savings potentials of 10-20% in Nigerian higher institutions through well articulated and vigorously pursued energy efficiency programmes in the system.
A techno-economic feasibility study on the use of distributed concentrating solar power generation in Johannesburg
Authors: Bode Christiaan César , Sheer Thomas John
Published: June 2019

The technical and financial feasibility of small-scale distributed Concentrating Solar Thermal Power (CSP) systems for urban areas in Johannesburg, South Africa, is investigated. The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), located in central Johannes-burg, is used as the basis of a case study for the im-plementation of these systems. A number of proven CSP technologies were identified and a technology screening was performed to identify suitable technologies for possible implementation, for a reference output of 120 kW(e). From these, a number of systems were chosen for more detailed evaluation and the hourly energy production of these systems was analysed, using local weather data. The Compound Linear Fresnel Reflector system (CLFR) proved to be most suitable because of the space and cost benefits it offers. Systems that integrate organic Rankine cycles (ORC) as well as thermal storage and hybridisation were also investigated. The levelised cost of electricity (LEC) was predicted to be between R4.31 and R3.18 per kWh. Currently these technologies cannot compete financially with the price of local, fossil produced electricity, but with the increase in electricity tariffs and demand for clean reliable power CSP technologies, may become competitive in distributed generation systems in urban areas.
Evaluation of a second order simulation for Sterling engine design and optimisation
Authors: Strauss Johannes M. , Dobson Robert T.
Published: June 2019

This paper reports on the investigation of the simulation accuracy of a second order Stirling cycle simulation tool as developed by Urieli (2001) and improvements thereof against the known performance of the GPU-3 Stirling engine. The objective of this investigation is to establish a simulation tool to perform preliminary engine design and optimisation.The second order formulation under investigation simulates the engine based on the ideal adiabatic cycle, and parasitic losses are only accounted for afterwards. This approach differs from third order formulations that simulate the engine in a coupled manner incorporating non-idealities during cyclic simulation. While the second order approach is less accurate, it holds the advantage that the degradation of the ideal performance due to the various losses is more clearly defined and offers insight into improving engine performance. It is therefore particularly suitable for preliminary design of engines.Two methods to calculate the performance and efficiency of the data obtained from the ideal adiabatic cycle and the parasitic losses were applied, namely the method used by Urieli and a proposed alternative method. These two methods differ essentially in how the regenerator and pumping losses are accounted for.The overall accuracy of the simulations, especially using the proposed alternative method to calculate the different operational variables, proved to be satisfactory. Although significant inaccuracies occurred for some of the operational variables, the simulated trends in general followed the measurements and it is concluded that this second order Stirling cycle simulation tool using the proposed alternative method to calculate the different operational variables is suitable for preliminary engine design and optimisation.
Electrical performance results of an energy efficient building with an integrated photovoltaic system
Authors: Ziuku Sosten , Meyer Edson L.
Published: June 2019

A 3.8 kW rooftop photovoltaic generator has been installed on an energy efficient house built at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus, South Africa. The system, located on the north facing roof, started generating electrical power in February 2009. In addition to providing electrical energy, the photovoltaic panels also act as the building roofing material. An instrumentation and data acquisition system was installed to record the indoor and outdoor ambient temperature, indoor and outdoor relative humidity, wind speed and direction, solar irradiance, electrical energy produced by the solar panels and the household energy consumption. This paper presents the initial results of the electrical performance of the building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) generator and energy consumption patterns in the energy efficient house.
Mammalian Cell Culture: Subculturing v2
Authors: Schackart Kenneth
Published: June 2019

This protocol details how to subculture/passage nearly confluent mammalian cells grown in a tissue culture flask.
Mammalian Cell Culture: Refreshing Media v2
Authors: Schackart Kenneth
Published: June 2019

This protocol explains how to refresh the media of cultured mammalian cells grown in a tissue culture flask.
Thawing and Seeding Frozen Cells v2
Authors: Schackart Kenneth
Published: June 2019

How to thaw cells from the liquid nitrogen storage and seed into a tissue culture flask
Mammalian Cell Culture: Freezing v1
Authors: Schackart Kenneth
Published: June 2019

This protocol describes how to freeze cells that are being cultured in a tissue culture flask (T-75 or T-25).
The influence of roasting conditions on volatile flavour compounds in raw and roasted cashew kernels (Anacadium ocidentale) grown
in Nigeria
Authors: Olatidoye Olawale Paul , Shittu Taofik Akinyemi , Awonorin Samuel Olusegun , Akin Ajisegiri Emmanuel Sunday
Published: June 2019

The use of inappropriate temperature-time combinations during the roasting of nuts could lead to quality defects, such as burnt taste, short shelf-life, rancidity, and poor flavour. In this study, cashew kernels were roasted in a forced airflow-drying oven for 20, 40,and 60 min at 100, 120, 140, and 160°C. The productswere evaluated for volatile flavour compounds and the sensory evaluation of the roasted cashew kernelsat different roasting conditions. The volatile fraction was isolated using the combined steam distillation–extraction procedure and identified by gas chromatography–flame-ionization detection (GC-FID). The consumer acceptability test was carried out by 100 panellists using nine point hedonic scales to assess preferences for like or dislike, colour, taste, texture, flavour,and overall acceptability. It was found that there were significant differences in flavour compounds between the different conditions of roasting. Twenty-nine volatile compounds were identified in both fresh and roasted cashew kernelscomprising five main classes,which consist of 12 hydrocarbons, eight aldehydes, four ketones, three alcohols,and one acid. The volatile compounds(mg/100g) ranged from 5.03x10-2to 1.20 (2-butanone), 7.46x10-6to 1.85 (hexanal), 8.91x10-6to 1.94 (acetone), 6.74x10-1to 2.24 (benzaldehyde). The amount of generated volatile compounds increased astheroasting temperature and time increased. The consumer acceptability test revealed that samples roasted for 40 or 60 min at 140°C produced the most acceptable product in terms of all the measured attributes. The study showed that the roasting conditions produced acceptable cashew kernelsof desirable colour and superior flavour quality that enhance direct and commercial utilization.
Approaches to Nordifikation of High-Latitude Construction Engineering
Authors: Inzhutov Ivan S. , Zhadanov Viktor I. , Falk Andreas , Nazirov Rashit A. , Amelchugov Sergey P. , Chaikin Evgeny A.
Published: June 2019

The simple mechanical transfer of structural technologies to high-latitude construction engineering is not efficient. But construction engineering nordifikation seems to be effective and expedient, for example working camps. Severe, extreme conditions in the Arctic are similar to extraterrestrial, for example, Martian therefore use of space technologies is required here. From this point of view, it is expedient to build space frame constructions such as: domes, lenses, spheres, Rello’s cones united by the covered transitions of ribbed type or the common covering, having good aerodynamics. In this article is emphasized the rationality of designs made of timber itself and wood materials that defines need of creation of the glued elements industry, that is possible only in presence of government support
Application Features of the Engineering Seismometric Method of Survey and Monitoring the Technical Condition of Buildings and Structures
Authors: Kuzmenko Aleksandr P. , Saburov Vladimir S. , Korolenko Leonid A. , Korolenko Daria B.
Published: June 2019

This paper considers the history of the development and using the engineering seismometric method of the examination and monitoring of buildings and structures for various purposes. The sequence of seismometric surveys and the justification of the process of periodic or continuous monitoring the technical condition by the changing of dynamic and elastic characteristics of the object is shown. Based on the long-term work experience, the authors presented the main mistakes made during the seismometric surveys and monitoring the technical condition of buildings and structures
Intravitreal injections in clinical practice: results of a survey of eye surgeons in the Ural federal district
Authors: Korotkikh Sergey A. , Bobykin Evgeniy V. , Ekgardt Valerij F. , Malishevskaya Tatiana N. , Kubareva Irina A. , Akulevich Tatiana G. , Morozova Olga V.
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Intravitreal i njections ( IVI) are widespread in modern ophthalmology as a method of drug delivery in various posterior segment pathologies. Despite the accumulated experience, some aspects of the procedure remain debatable. In addition, in the literature there are no data on the practical aspects of IVI performance in real clinical conditions in Russia. This article presents the results of an anonymous survey of 74 ophthalmologists of the Ural Federal District of the Russian Federation, conducted in 2018 using an original questionnaire, which included 20 questions. It was revealed that respondents generally share the traditional for Russia approach to IVI as to major ophthalmic surgery. The survey revealed a lack of common approaches and incomplete adherence to modern guidelines in certain aspects of the procedure, and therefore correcting measures were proposed.
Social Workers’ Religiosity and Its Impact on Religious Practice Behaviors
Authors: Mattison Debra , Jayaratne Srinika , Croxton Tom
Published: June 2019

This study explores the impact of the social work practitioner’s religiosity on religious practice behaviors. A random sample of 1,278 social workers who possessed M.S.W. degrees, who provided direct services to clients and were members of NASW were surveyed regarding their personal religiosity. They were also asked about their views on the appropriateness of six Religion and Prayer in Practice behaviors. Variations in Religion and Prayer Practice behaviors were analyzed in relationship to the worker’s religiosity, race, gender and employing agency auspice. Regardless of all other factors, the more religious a worker is, the more likely a worker is to view religious and prayer activities in practice as appropriate professional behavior. Implications and recommendations regarding the integration of religion and spirituality in social work education and practice are discussed.
Implementation of the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997: The Indiana Experience
Authors: Graham Cathleen S.
Published: June 2019

The Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 (ASFA) is expected to have a profound impact on children and families the child welfare system serves. This article provides information about Indiana’s experience in implementing ASFA, including policy decisions made by the legislative and executive branches of government and the involvement of the judiciary. A multidisciplinary task force addressed training and program needs for positive implementation. Initial outcomes for Indiana children and remaining challenges are discussed.
The 2001 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards: Implications for MSW Programs
Authors: Wagner Marion , Newcomb Paul , Weiler Robert
Published: June 2019

The 2001 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) establish
guidelines for baccalaureate and masters’ level social work education throughout
the United States. In this article, the authors discuss implications of the EPAS for
masters’ level social work educational programs. They focus especially upon the
opportunities afforded programs to introduce innovative educational experiences
Social Workers and Involuntary Treatment in Mental Health
Authors: Taylor Melissa F.
Published: June 2019

Involuntary treatment is often a reality in mental health social work. The current research examined 330 mental health social workers’ involvement in and opinions about involuntary treatment as part of their primary job functions. Varieties of involuntary intervention and typical frequency were investigated. The most often cited areas of involuntary treatment proved to be mandated outpatient counseling and emergency hospitalization. In general, participants reported high level of support for the existence of involuntary intervention, both in “idea” and “implementation.” The study also explored the attitudes social workers have about these sometimes “ethically-complex” social work interventions and how these attitudes may have changed over the life of their practice careers due to practice experience and personal growth, job changes, and exposure to the reality of mental illness.
The spiritual competence scale: validating a population specific measure of cultural competence with a faith-based sample
Authors: Hodge David R.
Published: June 2019

Cultural competence, including more focused forms of cultural competence such as spiritual competence, has been a topic of increasing professional attention over the past decade. Yet, while cultural competence is increasingly viewed as essential to effective service provision, few measure of cultural competence exist. To address the gap, the present study validates a new population-specific measure of spiritual competence with a random national sample of faith-based graduate students. Analysis suggests the eight item scale is a valid and reliable measure of spiritual competence. The instrument is designed to assess levels of competence in educational programs, but with modification it can be used in agency settings, or for individual self-assessment.
Exploring the state of religious diversity in social work education
Authors: Hodge David
Published: June 2019

This study examines the perceptions of religious discrimination in social work education among a religiously heterogeneous, national sample of professionally affiliated graduate students. The results indicate that theologically liberal and mainline Christians perceive low levels of religious discrimination to exist, on par with those who report no faith affiliation. As posited, however, evangelical and theologically conservative Christians reported significantly higher levels of religious discrimination. Relationships between orthodox beliefs, spiritual motivation and perceptions of religious discrimination are also explored. The implications of these findings are discussed as they intersect the NASW Code of Ethics and the CSQW Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards.
Using A Semiotic Metatheory for Theory Understanding, Appraisal, and Use: An Illustrative Social Work Translation of the Affect Control Theory of Emotions
Authors: Forte James A
Published: June 2019

Charles Sanders Peirce’s creed, “Do Not Block Inquiry,” and his triadic model of the signs serve as the base for a semiotic metatheory of science and scientific theory. Semioticians characterize science as a universe of diverse sign systems,
and scientists as members of different language communities.This paper introduces this approach. Affect control theorists ponder and investigate how actors, identities, actions, objects, emotions, and social settings are interrelated during interaction. Semiotic tools and principles guide the translation of the Affect Control Theory(ACT) of emotion. ACT is summarized and appraised for its value in increasing our understanding of human behavior in the social environment, its suitability to social
work, and its applicability. ACT technical words are translated into simpler language, ACT displays into words, and ACT’s interactionist language is translated into the language of ecosystems theory. Suggestions for strengthening ACT and for promoting semiotic translation are included.
Motivational Interviewing: A Theoretical Framework for the Study of Human Behavior and the Social Environment
Authors: Van Wormer Katherine
Published: June 2019

This article provides a critical analysis of motivational interviewing stages of change model. Although rarely included in textbooks on human behavior and the social environment, this model has much to teach us about that aspect of human behavior most germane to social work practice—personal motivation for change of behaviors that are dysfunctional. The basic concepts that underlie motivational interviewing are derived from empirically-based principles from the science of social psychology. This article provides a historical and comparative approach to theory development, argues for the utility of this perspective as a guide
to practice, and provides suggestions for further theory development.
Ecological Theory Origin from Natural to Social Science of Vice Versa? A Brief Conceptual History for Social Work
Authors: Rotabi Karen Smith
Published: June 2019

The origin of holistic social work and ecological theory was investigated. Emphasis was placed on Howard W. Odum, founding dean of the University of North Carolina School of Public Welfare, and subsequent scholarship by his sons, collaborators on the first American ecology text. Eugene and Howard Thomas Odum, internationally recognized ecological scholars, identified holism as a universal concept originating in social sciences, crediting their father’s earlier sociological work,which later bridged to ecosystems ecology. A historical review of the influential sociologists, social workers, and ecologists is presented to build the case for ecological theory transfer across the three disciplines, beginning with sociology. Critique of the current use of the ecological perspective is discussed, specifically social work’s tendency to target social systems and behavior while largely ignoring the natural environment.
Developing and Teaching anMSWCapstone Course Using Case Methods of Instruction
Authors: Wolfer Terry A. , Freeman Miriam L. , Rhodes Rita
Published: June 2019

Using an innovative process, the authors and their colleagues developed a
case-oriented MSW capstone course. This article outlines the process of developing
the course, choosing instructional methods and materials, and preparing instructors
to teach the course. It reviews the process of teaching the course, including preparing
to teach individual class sessions, identifying and dealing with several instructional
challenges that emerged, and designing means to evaluate the course. The authors
provide specific recommendations to faculty who wish to provide a similar course. In
particular, they show how course development involves substantial, ongoing collaboration
by faculty that yield exceptional benefits.
Collaborative Approaches to Undergraduate Research Training: Information Literacy and Data Management
Authors: Mooney Hailey , Collie W. Aaron , Nicholson Shawn , Sosulski Marya R.
Published: June 2019

The undergraduate research experience (URE) provides an opportunity for students to engage in meaningful work with faculty mentors on research projects. An increasingly important component of scholarly research is the application of research data management best practices, yet this often falls out of the scope of URE programs. This article presents a case study of faculty and librarian collaboration in the integration of a library and research data management curriculum into a social work URE research team. Discussion includes reflections on the content and learning outcomes, benefits of a holistic approach to introducing undergraduate students to research practice, and challenges of scale.
The Evolution and Changing Context of Social Work Education
Authors: Gelman Shelden R.
Published: June 2019

The nature of social work education has changed dramatically over the course of my academic career: From the degree(s) required for a faculty position to the number of years of practice experience; from expectations for research and publication, to criteria for promotion and tenure; from residential instruction to distance education; from an emphasis on foundation curriculum to practice competencies and outcomes; and, from a commitment to service to a quest to be the highest “ranked” program within the highest ranked institution. Given that change is an ongoing phenomenon, it is difficult to anticipate curriculum direction or plan one’s career path with a high degree of certainty. The future is often determined by external events, fate, where you are at a specific time, the assistance of others, and the opportunities that are presented. These changes and the evolution of social work education as a field of professional practice can best be demonstrated by reflecting on my own experiences in becoming a faculty member and serving in various academic positions over the last 45 years. The contrast between my personal experiences and those of the typical student in 2014 may help demonstrate some of the changes that have occurred in social work education over the intervening years.
The Strengths Model: Birth to Toddlerhood
Authors: Rapp Charles A. , Sullivan W. Patrick
Published: June 2019

The Strengths Model/Perspective was developed by social workers and the profession continues to be the leader in its practice, research and refinement. This article traces the three decades of evolution of this approach and the continuing expansion of its use around the world. Cautionary notes are provided and an agenda for future development is proposed.
The Development of International Programs in a School of Social Work
Authors: Raymond Frank B.
Published: June 2019

During the last decade increasing numbers of schools of social work have adopted an international mission and have developed a variety of activities to reflect their global perspective. In earlier years, however, relatively few schools expressed a global mission, offered coursework on international social work, provided field placements or other opportunities to expose students to international learning, or extended components of their academic programs to other countries. An early leader in doing such things was the College of Social Work at the University of South Carolina (COSW), where the author was privileged to serve as dean for 22 years (1980-2002) when many of these developments occurred. This paper will discuss how this school acquired an international mission and developed various programs to manifest this commitment. The paper will describe, in particular, the college’s signature achievement in international social work education – the development and implementation of a Korea-based MSW program. The COSW was the first school of social work in the US to offer a master’s degree in its entirety in a foreign country. It is hoped that the recounting of this school’s experiences will offer guidance to other social work education programs that are exploring ways of expanding their international initiatives.
A Half-Century of Social Work Research: Advances and New Challenges
Authors: Rubin Allen
Published: June 2019

This article provides an autobiographical account of the evolution and role of social work research since the beginning of my career as a social worker in the late 1960s. It traces the bumpy road from the days when the profession’s attitude about research was, at best, ambivalent to today’s emphasis on evidence-informed practice and empirically supported treatments. It ends by identifying several new challenges and their implications for future efforts to help further bridge the gap between research and practice in social work.
Parent Group Education to ENABLE “Barrio” Parents
Authors: Curiel Herman
Published: June 2019

This paper describes a 1960s “War on Poverty” parent group education program that brought together three national private voluntary agencies with federal funding by the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO). Project ENABLE (Education Neighborhood Action for a Better Living Environment) sought to direct professional efforts to help/empower the poor and societal members of ethnic minority groups. Group education as a preventive modality was used to strengthen parents’ problem solving skills in their roles both as parents and as community leaders. The author describes his group leadership role together with that of the indigenous case aides who helped direct/enable the collective power of a group of poor Spanish speaking Mexican origin families living in barrios (neighborhoods) of a major metropolitan southern city. Project ENABLE embraced a strengths-based perspective characteristic of social work’s historical empowerment traditions. Despite its brief existence, Project ENABLE functioned as a demonstration program in 62 communities across the United States. Ironically, its prevention focus and demonstration nature served to undermine its ability to compete with other OEO initiatives like Head Start and job training programs. The author cites a combination of historical and logistic factors that contributed to the short life and ultimate demise of a once promising outreach program.
The Origins and Future of Rural Social Work
Authors: Ginsberg Leon
Published: June 2019

Traced in the article are some of the author’s reflections and experiences related to the origins of rural social work practice as well as some of the issues currently crucial for rural social work educators and practitioners. New data on U.S. rural demographics are provided. One factor with a special impact on rural life is the development of technology, which in some ways is changing the nature of rural community life. Integrated into this discussion of rural practice are observations about social work education in general and some of its current trends, reflective of the author’s 50 years as an educator.
Post 9-11 Terror Hysteria: Social Work Practice and The US Patriot Act
Authors: Besthorn Fred H.
Published: June 2019

It was only weeks after the planes crashed into the twin towers on that bright, sunlit morning of September 11th, 200l, that it became apparent that the most important challenge now facing American democracy was how well would we strike a balance between liberty and security. This paper will look at the history of civil liberties in light of threats to national security. It will examine components of the US Patriot Act, how these provisions are being applied and the potential implication of the act on social work education and practice. Suggestions of how social work might respond to these new realities will be discussed.
Aging in Rural Appalachia: Perspectives from Geriatric Social Service Professionals
Authors: Pope Natalie D. , Loeffler Diane N. , Ferrell D. Lee
Published: June 2019

This paper uses qualitative methodology to explore the experience of growing old in rural Appalachia. Given the growing population of older adults seeking and utilizing services, it is important to understand the challenges and specific needs related to aging. Within the context of rural Appalachia, these challenges and needs may be different than those in urban areas or areas outside of the region itself. From interviews with 14 geriatric service providers in rural southeast Ohio, the authors were able to identity three prevalent themes associated with aging in rural North Central Appalachia: scarcity of resources, valuing neighbors and family, and the prevalence of drug use. These findings suggest that preparation and ongoing training of rural geriatric social workers should include attention to topics such as substance abuse and strengthening social support networks that often exist in these regions.
#AdvocatingForChange: The Strategic Use of Hashtags in Social Media Advocacy
Authors: Saxton Gregory D. , Niyirora Jerome N. , Guo Chao , Waters Richard D.
Published: June 2019

Social media continues to change how advocacy organizations mobilize, educate, and connect with their constituents. One of the most unique yet understudied tools available on social media platforms is the hashtag. Little research exists on how social work and advocacy organizations use hashtags, much less on how such use can be effective. This study examines the hashtag use by 105 constituent members of the National Health Council, a national US-based patient/health advocacy coalition. The study presents an inductive coding scheme of the types of hashtags employed, analyzes inter-sectoral differences in hashtag usage, and examines the relationship between hashtag use and measures of the effectiveness of social media messages.
The use of geographic information systems (GIS) in conducting a needs assessment of seniors in Collier County
Authors: Felke Thomas Patrick
Published: June 2019

Despite boasting a population where approximately 50% of individuals are aged 65 or older, Collier County has few services specifically targeting this population. This project utilized geographic information systems (GIS) to examine the current needs of the senior population in a defined section of Collier County, Florida. Various data points regarding the population age 65 and over were obtained using the U.S. Census Bureau’s American FactFinder tool. This data was incorporated into digital maps that included the census tracts of the selected geographic area, locations of existing programs/services, and the existing transportation network. The results of the spatial analysis were corroborated by data collected via key informant interviews and focus groups. The result of the project was the establishment of the first senior access center in Collier County. The project reinforces the use of GIS technologies for the purposes of needs assessment and siting program locations in the human services.
Electronic information systems and social work: principles of participatory design for social workers
Authors: Gillingham Philip
Published: June 2019

The introduction of electronic information systems (IS) to human service organizations has been heavily critiqued, most notably for the ways that they may undermine frontline social work practice. Socio-technical design has been proposed as one means to redesign IS and a key element of this approach is the involvement of practitioners in the design process. Social workers, though, may be ill-prepared to engage in such processes. Reflecting on the findings of a program of research which aims to contribute to future designs of IS that support frontline practice, the aim in this article is to provide some guidance for social workers that will assist them to be active and effective participants in the future development of IS.
Child Parent Relationship Training (CPRT): Enhancing Parent-child Relationships for Military Families
Authors: Jensen-Hart Staci J. , Christensen Jeff , Dutka Lacey , Leishman J. Corey
Published: June 2019

Military families experience increased stress when facing issues of deployment, separation, and reunification. The increased stress impacts the parent-child relationship as well as child behavioral and emotional well-being. Although recognizing the resiliency of military families, research points to the need to monitor parental stress both pre- and post-deployment and highlights the inherent risks that separation and reunification pose for the parent-child relationship bond. This pilot study was designed to explore the effectiveness of the Child Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT) Training Model as a proactive method of enhancing parent-child relationships, reducing parental stress, and preventing negative impact of military separations on children.
Military Social Work Thinking in South Africa
Authors: Van Breda Adrian D.
Published: June 2019

Military social workers in South Africa have developed distinctive ways of thinking about military social work. These developments have been influenced by various contextual factors, such as the transition of South Africa to a non-racial democracy in 1994 and the establishment of a military social work research capacity. These factors contributed to new ways of thinking, such as the recognition that military social work has a mandate to facilitate organizational change and the adoption of a resilience perspective. A central development in military social work thinking in South Africa was the formulation of a Military Social Work Practice Model, which is described and illustrated in some detail. This model emphasizes binocular vision (focusing on the interface between soldiers and the military organization) and four practice positions, derived from occupational social work theory. The author notes the importance of creating appropriate contexts that facilitate further developments in military social work theory.
Social Workers' Role in the Disproportionality of African American Students in Special Education
Authors: Bean Kristen Faye
Published: June 2019

There is an overrepresentation of African American students in special education. Research on this phenomenon has primarily focused on educators within schools. School social workers are in unique positions to impact the disproportionality. Patricia Collins’ Domains-of-Power Framework is used to demonstrate how school social workers can practice transformational resistance to eliminate the overrepresentation of African American students in special education. School social workers should: 1) attend IEP meetings and conduct home visits and biopsychosocial evaluations with students who are being assessed for special education services, 2) offer to evaluate and conduct home visits with students whom teachers deem to be “at-risk” to prevent inappropriate assessments for special education, 3) create a school culture of acceptance of difference, and 4) ask themselves how they individually foster racial domination or emancipation in their daily actions.
Paying Project Participants: Dilemmas in Research with Poor, Marginalized Populations
Authors: Descartes Lara , Asencio Marysol , Blank Thomas O.
Published: June 2019

This paper presents a case study about issues that can arise in research with marginalized populations. We use our experiences during a focus group conducted with low-income men to discuss how using monetary incentives can lead to ethical and methodological dilemmas, including participants’ misrepresentation of their demographic backgrounds to match study criteria. We address difficulties caused by the Institutional Review Board process’ inability to account for unanticipated circumstances during fieldwork. We note that any resolution of such dilemmas must prioritize responsible research practice and protecting participants. We also note the need for more research on the impact and ethics of monetary and other incentives in recruiting participants for studies such as ours that include populations from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The issues raised in this paper have implications for those considering research design, especially concerning incentives and screening questions.
Healing Rituals for Survivors of Rape
Authors: Galambos Colleen
Published: June 2019

Therapeutic rituals focus on clinical healing within different contexts and client populations. This article explores the use of therapeutic ritual at individual and collective levels to help survivors of rape to heal. This technique is applied to both levels through a discussion of two rituals developed for rape survivors. Results of a study that examined participant comments about a collective ritual for healing are discussed. Findings indicate that participants attend the ritual to be supportive of others and to be supported themselves. Family members attend to obtain information about rape. This article explores practice implications from a service planning and implementation perspective.
Parental Involvement in an Emerging Democracy: The Case of Croatia
Authors: Luca Sugawara Carmen , Hermoso Jocelyn Clare R. , Delale Eva Anđela , Hoffman Kay , Lupšić Diana
Published: June 2019

Parental involvement in schools in an emerging democracy has gained significant attention among school administrators, educators, parents, local governments, and the international development community; yet, empirical data on this subject remains sparse. This study aims to examine the patterns of parental involvement in schools in Croatian communities. Using mixed-methods, the sample size consists of 294 elementary school parents, two focus groups (parents and teachers), and nine interviews with national and international stakeholders. The study found that, apart from the educational outcomes for children, parental involvement also may be an important platform through which parents can practice democratic behaviors and engage in community-building initiatives. Through school-related activities, parents learn to interact with a government institution, voice their interests, participate in decision-making, leverage and use power, and cooperate with each other and the community. Findings from this study can have implications for social work practice and social development assistance by recognizing how engaging parents in school-based activities can become a platform for community participation and democratic behavior.
Client Goals and Dreams: Replacing the Norm of Functioning
Authors: Dybicz Phillip
Published: June 2019

This article examines how knowledge gathering is organized when interviewing a client and designing a treatment plan. When the focus of social work practice is upon adaptation (e.g., achieving a goodness-of-fit), knowledge gathering is organized by the presenting problem or need and the social worker’s expertise on human functioning. When the focus of social work practice is upon identity formation (as advocated by postmodern approaches), knowledge gathering is organized by the client’s dreams/goals and the client’s preferred identity (of who she or he would like to be). Within these postmodern approaches, practice falls into three much different broad phases, encapsulated by the terms “confront, generate, solidify.”
The Transformative Power of a Learning Community
Authors: Hostetter Carol , Williamson Sabrina , Byers Katharine V. , Huggins Pamela J.
Published: June 2019

Recently, higher education has focused on “learning communities.” This
study examines a process in which students create expectations for their community of learners. The expectations provide the basis for assessment of students and the
program. Across three cohorts, common themes arise. The major themes from students’ expectations of faculty are that faculty should be organized, use a variety of
teaching methods, and provide mentoring. Students primarily want their peers to
participate actively and constructively in class, have academic honesty, and contribute to class in a civil, respectful manner . Study findings indicate that students are
empowered in finding their collective voice and holding each other accountable for
classroom community. Using the transformative power of a learning community to
improve both student classroom behaviors and faculty teaching appears to be a
promising practice.
Economic Modeling in SocialWork Education
Authors: Cournoyer Barry R. , Powers Gerald , Johnson James , Bennett Robert
Published: June 2019

Economic modeling provides academic administrators with a logical
framework for analyzing costs associated with the processes involved in the delivery
of social work education. The specific costs associated with activities such as teaching,
research, and service may be determined for a school of social work as a whole or
for specific responsibility centers (e.g., programs and services within the school).
Economic modeling utilizes modern spreadsheet software that can be configured in
relation to the idiosyncratic needs and budgeting strategies that exist in virtually all
colleges and universities. As a versatile planning tool, it enables managers to identify
specific “cost-drivers” that cause the occurrence of real costs in relation to designated
programmatic initiatives. In addition, economic modeling provides academic planners
and decision-makers a useful vehicle for considering the economic impact of
various projected (“what if”) scenarios.
Social Work Practice with Arab Families: The Implications of Spirituality vis-à-vis Islam
Authors: Hall Ronald E.
Published: June 2019

In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, spiritualism has become apparent
as critical to social work practice with Arab families. Regrettably, research on Arab
families today is all but non-existent.Their belief in Islam is the fastest growing form
of spirituality in Central Asia. Social workers who do not acknowledge this fact will
be at a severe disadvantage in their attempts to treat Arab clientele. It is not compulsory that practitioners endorse client belief systems or other aspects of their spirituality, but practitioners should acknowledge said systems as a critical point in the
client’s frame of reference. In the interest of social justice, social workers are thus
challenged to develop creative treatment strategies less confined to Western bias.
Research Training, Institutional Support, and Self-Efficacy: Their Impact on Research Activity of Social Workers
Authors: Lynch Mark Thomas , Zhang Lening , Korr Wynne S.
Published: June 2019

While the expectations for social work practitioners to do research have increased, their involvement is still limited. We know little about what factors influence involvement in research. The present study proposes a theoretical model that hypothesizes research training and institutional support for research as the exogenous variables, research self-efficacy as an intervening variable, and research activity as the endogenous variable. The study tests the model using data collected from a random sample of social workers. To a large degree the data support the model. Research self-efficacy has a significant effect on research activity. It is also an important mediating variable for the effect of institutional support on research activity. Although institutional support for research has no direct effect, it has an indirect effect via self-efficacy on research activity. However, research training has no effect on research activity and self-efficacy in research. The implications of these findings are discussed.
A Social Work Model of Empathy
Authors: Gerdes Karen E. , Segal Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2019

This article presents a social work model of empathy that reflects the latest interdisciplinary research findings on empathy. The model reflects the social work commitment to social justice. The three model components are: 1) the affective response to another’s emotions and actions; 2) the cognitive processing of one’s affective response and the other person’s perspective; and 3) the conscious decision-making to take empathic action. Mirrored affective responses are involuntary, while cognitive processing and conscious decision-making are voluntary. The affective component requires healthy, neural pathways to function appropriately and accurately. The cognitive aspects of perspective-taking, self-awareness, and emotion regulation can be practiced and cultivated, particularly through the use of mindfulness techniques. Empathic action requires that we move beyond affective responses and cognitive processing toward utilizing social work values and knowledge to inform our actions. By introducing the proposed model of empathy, we hope it will serve as a catalyst for discussion and future research and development of the model.

Key Words: Empathy, Social Empathy, Social Cognitive Neuroscience
Spirituality and Older Adults: Ethical Guidelines to Enhance Service Provision
Authors: Hodge David R. , Bonifas Robin P. , Chou Rita Jing-Ann
Published: June 2019

Spirituality plays an important role in the lives of many older adults. Consequently, it is not surprising that gerontological social workers frequently engage spirituality in practice settings. The paucity of training gerontological workers have received on this topic, however, is a cause for concern. To help equip workers, three ethical principles are proposed to guide interactions in the area of spirituality. These principles can be summarized as: 1) client autonomy, 2) spiritual competence, and 3) professional competence. The application of these principles in practice settings will enhance the ability of gerontological social workers to interact with older adults’ spirituality in a professional and ethical manner.
Does Ethnicity Matter? Social Workers’ Personal Attitudes and Professional Behaviors in Reporting Child Maltreatment
Authors: Ashton Vicki
Published: June 2019

This study examined differences in the attitudes of professional social workers regarding corporal punishment and the perception and reporting of child maltreatment, according to the worker’s ethnic group membership (Asian, Black American, Black Caribbean, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic White). Data were obtained by mailed questionnaires from 808 members of the New York City chapter of NASW. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance. Results indicate that approval of corporal punishment and perception of maltreatment differed according to ethnic group membership. However, ethnicity had no effect on the likelihood of reporting maltreatment. Findings suggest that social work values override personal-culture values in the execution of job-related responsibilities. Implications for education and practice are discussed.
Peer Review in a Social Policy Course: Lessons Learned
Authors: Acquavita Shauna P. , Tice Carolyn J.
Published: June 2019

Peer review is a tool that provides students with a sense of how their work is perceived by others. Built on refection and feedback, peer review assesses the quality of academic processes and products based on well-understood criteria. Peer review was implemented in a baccalaureate social work policy course to enhance writing and critical thinking skills. Students were surveyed on their experiences and indicated that peer review activities provided beneficial learning exercises. The information gathered suggests methods for future implementation of peer review in social work education.