bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Local Governmental Funding in Nonprofit Survival
Authors: Besel Karl
Published: June 2019

Nonprofit social service organizations in America originally relied on private donations and charitable events to sustain their operations. As the number of nonprofit organizations has proliferated over the last few decades, so has nonprofit dependency on governmental and other sources of revenue. A case study design was used to examine factors that have impacted the survival of the original Indiana Youth Service Bureaus. This study highlights salient factors that influence survival and explores the characteristics and circumstances of selected organizations that enhance their sustainability. The findings suggest that social work administrators need to foster long-term relationships with local funders as a means of enhancing organizational survival.
Issues in the Seclusion and Restraint of Juveniles: Policy, Practice and Possibilities
Authors: Ellis Rodney A. , Pruett Anne L. , Sowers Karen M.
Published: June 2019

The appropriate use of seclusion and restraint (S/R) is an important issue among juvenile justice professionals. Recent newspaper articles have brought the issue to the attention of the United States Senate, law enforcement agencies, and the general public. The result has been a series of investigations and publications by the Senate, law enforcement, and professional associations. Despite the attention this issue has received, professionals have yet to reach a definitive agreement as to what recent legislation and the professional and popular literature regarding the use of S/R. They identify major issues currently under discussion, highlight areas of consensus, and enumerate several dimensions that require further exploration. Finally, the authors discuss the implications of S/R for social work practitioners, including the importance of education and training, monitoring, hiring, policy advocacy, and ongoin research.
Now You See It, Now You Don't: Faculty and Student Perceptions of Classroom Incivility in a Social Work Program
Authors: Ausbrooks Angela R. , Jones Sally Hill , Tijerina Mary S.
Published: June 2019

Classroom incivility is identified as a concern in the higher education literature; however, the extent to which these concerns apply to social work education has not been empirically addressed. This initial, exploratory study examined the perceptions of classroom behaviors in a small convenience sample of faculty and students in one social work program. Quantitative results indicated that faculty tended to perceive incivility as generally less serious and frequent than did student participants. Qualitative findings suggested that while faculty believed they were addressing incivility, students did not. Students expressed the desires for instructors to be more aware of behaviors, especially distracting use of electronic devices, and to take stronger actions to enforce guidelines. Social work programs may need to consider developing uniform policies for addressing incivility as well as helping faculty to find more effective ways to address the problem. Future research is needed with larger, more representative samples.
Urban Heat Islands and Social Work: Opportunities for Intervention
Authors: Hamilton Billy , Erickson Christina L.
Published: June 2019

The urban heat island (UHI), formed by surface modification of soil and vegetation, increases minimum nighttime temperatures within cities and causes heat-stress among dwellers. Children, elders and low-income persons are disproportionately burdened by the UHI. These populations often lack the necessary biological, economic and social resources to cope with or prevent heat stress. Because UHI’s are expected to increase with climate change, more social workers will be expected to serve the populations most affected by UHI. This paper addresses how the social work profession can play a role in efforts to address the effects of UHI’s on vulnerable populations.
Fair Trade as a Community Development Initiative: Local and Global Implications
Authors: Fitzgerald Charity Samantha
Published: June 2019

This paper examines fair trade as a community development initiative that challenges unjust global trading conditions. On a local level, fair trade aims to create a sustainable livelihood for farmers, to strengthen agricultural cooperatives, and to fund community-based projects. Fair trade also purports to engender global solidarity through linking Southern producers and Northern consumers in a concerted effort to direct the market towards social aims. The paper examines the strengths and weaknesses of fair trade as a social welfare intervention. Recommendations are provided to strengthen the fair-trade movement in light of social work values.
Child Welfare Workers’ Connectivity to Resources and Youth’s Receipt of Services
Authors: Bunger Alicia C. , Stiffman Arlene R. , Foster Kirk A. , Shi Peichang
Published: June 2019

Youth involved in the child welfare system are at high risk for mental illness, substance abuse, and other behavioral health issues, which child welfare workers are expected to address through referrals. Child welfare workers (N=27) who participated in Project IMPROVE (Intervention for Multisector Provider Enhancement) reported on services they provided to youth (N=307) in their caseloads. Using survey and administrative data, this paper examines workers’ service actions on behalf of youth. Results were consistent with the Gateway Provider Model and showed that youths received help from a greater variety of service sectors when their workers were able to identify behavioral health problems, and were familiar with and connected to other providers in the community. Improving service delivery to youth in child welfare may be accomplished by training workers in the signs and symptoms of behavioral health problems and familiarizing them with providers in the community.
Underlying Motives, Moral Agendas and Unlikely Partnerships: The Formulation of the U.S. Trafficking in Victims Protection Act Through the Data and Voices of Key Policy Players
Authors: Bromfield Nicole Footen , Capous-Desyllas Moshoula
Published: June 2019

In response to the overwhelming amount of attention to human trafficking, the debates surrounding its definition, and its focus on the sex industry, the purpose of this study was to understand the motivations behind the formation of the Trafficking in Victims Protection Act (TVPA). Using the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) as a model, data was collected and analyzed in order to examine the coalition identities of key players and their positions. Through the presentation of in-depth interview data with key policy players involved in the making of the TVPA, this article illustrates how and why the TVPA was formulated, the implications of its development, and the necessity for critical analysis of its effects. The use of alternative frameworks of labor and migration for understanding trafficking is proposed. Further consideration is given to legislative changes to eliminate anti-prostitution ideology and to support anti-oppressive approaches to addressing forced or deceptive working conditions.
In the Wake of Japan’s Triple Disaster: Rebuilding Capacity through International Collaboration
Authors: Des Marais Eric Anthony , Bhadra Subhasis , Dyer Allen R.
Published: June 2019

Natural disasters occur when the destructive forces of natural events, such as earthquakes, flood, and volcanoes, overwhelm the capacities of communities. In the winter of 2011, Japan, a model for disaster-preparedness, was shaken by one of the largest earthquakes on record, a ten-story tsunami, and a nuclear emergency on par with Chernobyl. In the acute stages of the disaster, the Japanese government officially asked for help from a number of countries. During this time period, international collaboration played a key role in providing help to survivors in the form of medical assistance, food aid, and psychosocial support. As provision of aid evolved into capacity building, national and local Japanese government agencies, in partnership with local grassroots non-profits, assumed most responsibilities, and international organizations transitioned into new roles. This paper will present a study of the collaboration facilitated by a global non-profit humanitarian organization between international faculty and local partners in Japan.
Local and Global Poverty: Insights Using a Rights-based Approach
Authors: Deka Ankita
Published: June 2019

Social workers have proposed various conceptual models to explain the relationship between structural oppressions and poverty. These models are grounded in critical social work and each provides an understanding of how systemic issues impact the sustenance and reinforcement of poverty. With rapid economic globalization and further social and economic exclusion faced by people, poverty has become even more deep and complex. This paper argues for the adoption of a rights-based framework in social work to address issues of endemic structural poverty. Grounded on the principle of the inalienability of basic human rights, the rights-based approach changes the discourse on poverty by creating accountability, equality, transparency and participation from welfare states and civil society. The paper also provides a critique against traditional human rights perspectives in poverty alleviation. The paper provides a context in which the rights-based approach could be pursued in global as well as local contexts.
Modern Social Support Structures: Online Social Networks and their Implications for Social Workers
Authors: Chakradhar Kala , Raj Victor , Raj Arabella
Published: June 2019

Mapping and assessing social networks and the quality of their social support is a valuable intervention strategy for social workers. These networks have now spread onto the digital realm in the form of Online Social Networks (OSNs). This study investigated the nature of social support provided by such networks to their users in a rural mid-South University (USA) and explored parallels with the current understanding of social support in conventional social networks. A web-based survey administered to college students revealed that users of these online networks were predominantly undergraduate first year students, female, single, unemployed and from a variety of academic disciplines. The examination of the components of OSNs appears to mirror those of offline networks. They also seem to complement the effects of each other while contributing to an individual's support system. The paper concludes with critical implications of such online social networking for University students and social workers in practice and education.
“You Make Them Do What?”: A National Survey on Field Seminar Assignments
Authors: Dalton Bruce
Published: June 2019

This national study of MSW field directors provides data on field seminars and assignments. Field directors at CSWE accredited or in-candidacy MSW programs were surveyed regarding program data, presence and nature of a field seminar, required assignments, and opinion questions about CSWE requirements. Findings from the 141 completed surveys (66.2% response rate) show assignments are similar between foundation and concentration years, and also similar to assignments required in the BSW curriculum. This raises questions of curriculum redundancy and how to properly sequence field assignments. Other findings about field education and field seminar are also presented.
The Internationalization of Doctoral Social Work Education: Learning from a Partnership in Ethiopia
Authors: Johnson Butterfield Alice K.
Published: June 2019

What does it mean to internationalize doctoral education by working abroad? What does it mean to internationalize doctoral education in one’s home country? This article offers a perspective based on the Social Work Education in Ethiopia Partnership, which established Ethiopia’s first-ever master’s degree in social work in 2004. To ensure sustainability of the MSW program, a doctoral program in Social Work and Social Development was launched in 2006. This article describes the development and research base of the doctoral program. Beginning in the first semester, teams of doctoral students join with poor communities in action research.Overall, these efforts lead to an emerging model of university-based development. Through engaged action research, faculty and students use human capital resources and the educational process to function as “development actors.” Some ideas for internationalizing doctoral education are offered. Deans and directors in the United States and Canada are challenged to expand doctoral education within a developing country and to prepare doctoral students to include international perspectives in their teaching and research.
Late Onset of Prescription Drug Abuse or Dependence Among Older Adults: Implications for Treatment
Authors: Lay Kathy , King Lucy J.
Published: June 2019

Prescription drug abuse and dependence is an increasing concern for older
adults. This article describes issues specific to older adults with late onset abuse or
dependence on prescription sedatives and/or opiates.The older adult with late onset
should not be viewed as having the same issues as individuals who have a life pat-
tern of drug and alcohol abuse/dependence.A chart review of older adults in a treatment program contrasts late onset prescription dependence clients (n=12) and early
onset addiction clients (n=104) and outlines differences and similarities between the
two samples. Social workers need to understand the specific and changing needs of
older adults as they relate to assessment and treatment of drug abuse and dependence.
Helping Veterans and Their Families Fight On!
Authors: Hazle Megan , Wilcox Sherrie L. , Hassan Anthony M.
Published: June 2019

This new generation of veterans is coming home to families, friends, employers, and communities that likely do not understand military culture, nor the effects that military service and reintegration have on a veteran’s life, leading to the next war – the Reintegration War. Military servicemembers, veterans, and their families face challenges within the Reintegration War that are different from their civilian counterparts and are complicated by military-specific circumstances. In order to more effectively and efficiently address the challenges servicemembers, veterans, and their families face, we need to work together in a comprehensive effort. Strategies are presented to help win the Reintegration War and ease the transition for servicemembers, veterans, and their families.
Considering Family and Significant Others in the Faculty Recruitment Process: A Study of Social Work Recruiting Practices
Authors: Sherr Michael E. , Jones Johnny M.
Published: June 2019

One of the most important facets of quality social work education is the
recruitment and retention of faculty. This mixed methods study uses findings from
an on-line survey of 106 recent (within three years) faculty hires and their (n=24)
spouse/partner/significant others (S/P/SO) to determine the degree to which family-
integrative recruitment strategies were being used in recruiting social work faculty
and the impact with which the presence or absence of these strategies have on retention. A majority of respondents reported that S/P/SO were excluded from the recruitment process.Though the few respondents who felt included were pleased with their
current position and planned to pursue tenure to stay with the school, a significant
number of faculty whose S/P/SO were not involved were already contemplating their
next position.The authors suggest family integrative strategies that help S/P/SO connect with the community may give social work programs the competitive edge they
need to attract and retain the best and brightest social work faculty.
Clinical Social Workers: Advocates for Social Justice
Authors: McLaughlin Anne Marie
Published: June 2019

Advocacy activities provide an avenue for all social workers to connect their practice with the profession’s aim of social justice. In fact, it is this social justice connection to the advocacy role that may distinguish social work from other professions. Yet advocacy remains a controversial practice for many clinical social workers. This study reports on one aspect of a larger study (McLaughlin, 2006), which examined how clinical social workers in mental health conceptualized social justice as part of their work. The data revealed a strong relationship exists between clinical social work practice, social justice and advocacy. The concept of advocacy that emerged from the data was multi-dimensional and included strategies that were instrumental, educational, and practical.
Social Justice and Lesbian Feminism: Two Theories Applied to Homophobia
Authors: Levy Denise L.
Published: June 2019

Trends in contemporary social work include the use of an eclectic theory
base. In an effort to incorporate multiple theories, this article will examine the social
problem of homophobia using two different theoretical perspectives: John Rawls’ theory of social justice and lesbian feminist theory.Homophobia, a current social problem, can be defined as “dislike or hatred toward homosexuals, including both cultural and personal biases against homosexuals” (Sullivan, 2003, p. 2). Rawls’ theory of
justice and lesbian feminist theory are especially relevant to the issue of homophobia
and provide a useful lens to understanding this social problem. In this article, these
two theories will be summarized, applied to the issue of homophobia, and compared
and contrasted based on their utility.
Social Work in a Developing Continent: The Case of Africa
Authors: Chitereka Christopher
Published: June 2019

Social work is a professional approach to ameliorating social problems. It is generally understood as a helping profession that utilizes professionally qualified personnel who use its knowledge base to help people tackle their social problems (Mupedziswa, 2005). Nevertheless, in developing countries, social work is a relatively young profession which was influenced by colonialism in its formation. The type of social work practiced in these countries largely mirrors the one that is being practiced in Britain, France and Portugal among others. Utilizing the continent of Africa as a case study, this article argues that social work practice in Africa tends to be curative or remedial in nature and is not adequately addressing people’s problems. It therefore proposes a paradigm shift from remedial to a social development paradigm if it is to make an impact in the 21st century.
The Effect of Statutory Regulations on Social Workers’ Decisions to Report Child Maltreatment
Authors: Ashton Vicki
Published: June 2019

This study examined social workers’ perceptions of the New York State law requiring the reporting of child maltreatment and the relationship of those perceptions with the likelihood that workers would report incidents of maltreatment to child protective services. Data were collected by a mailed questionnaire from a sample of 710 social workers belonging to the New York City chapter of NASW. Findings show that social workers differ in their understanding of the law and that the worker’s understanding is related to reporting behavior. The worker’s understanding of the law had a small but significant effect on the likelihood of reporting, accounting for 6% of the variance. The binomial effect size of the relationship (r = .24) is such that a worker’s understanding of the law is sufficient to increase the likelihood of reporting a case of maltreatment from 38% to 62%. Implications for practice are discussed.
Toward Building a Culture of Strengths in U.S. MSW Programs
Authors: Plitt Donaldson Linda , Early Barbara P. , Wang Min-Ling
Published: June 2019

Social work has embraced the strengths perspective as a vital part of micro, mezzo, and macro practice. Yet the authors’ experience suggests that the medical model of deficits, disease, and disorder remains the dominant paradigm. This exploratory study sought to determine how and to what extent strengths-based practice is integrated into the MSW practice curriculum. Forty-four (44) of 181 programs responded to a 12-item web-based survey. Quantitative and qualitative responses indicate an almost universal awareness of and attention to integrating strengths-based content. However, a smaller number of programs appear to be looking beyond curriculum content towards the creation of a broader culture of strengths. Even so, challenges remain toward overcoming a pathological orientation in social work practice curricula.
Peer Support, Self-efficacy, and Combat-related Trauma Symptoms among Returning OIF/OEF Veterans
Authors: MacEachron Ann , Gustavsson Nora
Published: June 2019

The incidence of PTSD and other combat-related trauma symptoms among more than 2 million veterans returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) in Afghanistan suggests that many will experience psychological challenges in adjusting to civilian life. However, the literature is sparse about this new group of veterans. This study examined the relationships between peer support, self-efficacy, and PTSD symptoms among 216 OIF/OEF veterans who had attended 1 of 17 Vets4Vets peer support weekend retreats. Vets4Vets is a national grassroots program whose mission is to improve the psychological well-being of returning OIF/OEF veterans. Analysis of posttest changes indicate the generalizability of previous research findings, based on other groups of trauma-affected groups, to OIF/OEF veterans. As predicted, increased perceived peer support and self-efficacy reduced PTSD symptoms. From a theoretical perspective, we found that both models of self-efficacy, situation-specific (Bandura, 1997; Benight & Bandura, 2004) and general self-efficacy (Schwarzer & Fuchs, 1996), mediated or explained the relationship between peer support and PTSD symptoms. Implications for social work are discussed.
Mental Health, Access, and Equity in Higher Education
Authors: Martin Jennifer , Oswin Fiona
Published: June 2019

This paper tackles the difficult and often not openly discussed This paper tackles the difficult and often not openly discussed topic of access and equity in higher education for people with mental health difficulties. Recent legislative and policy developments in mental health, disability, anti-discrimination and education mean that all students who disclose a mental health condition can expect fair and equitable treatment. However the findings of an exploratory study at an Australian university reveal that just under two thirds of the 54 students who reported mental health difficulties did not disclose this to staff due to fears of discrimination at university and in future employment. Students who did disclose felt supported when staff displayed a respectful attitude and provided appropriate advice and useful strategies for them to remain engaged in university studies when experiencing mental health difficulties.
Attitudes of Kuwaiti Young Adults toward Marriage and Divorce:
Authors: Alqashan Humoud , Alkandari Hayfaa
Published: June 2019

This study investigates whether parental marital status affects young adults’ attitudes toward marriage and divorce. There exists a vast amount of literature on the impact of divorce on young adults in Western cultures; however, no previous empirical studies have been conducted on the attitudes of young adults from intact and divorced families in the Gulf region or in Arab countries in the Middle East. The sample of the study consisted of 661 young adults from Kuwait University (from divorced and intact families). The findings reveal that adults whose parents divorced show fewer positive attitudes toward marriage than do those individuals from intact marriages. The study also suggests that adults whose parents were divorced carry more positive attitudes toward divorce compared with individuals from intact marriages. Furthermore, gender was found to be an important factor in shaping attitudes toward marriage and divorce. A longitudinal study is recommended to look at the changes in young adults’ attitudes toward marriage and divorce over time, which will help to identify the influence of other factors of attitudes toward marriage and divorce.
Developing a Pedagogy of ITV Teaching Experience through a Teaching Circle
Authors: Chakradhar Kala , Chavis Llena
Published: June 2019

Objective: Distance learning through the use of interactive television (ITV) has been a part of Social Work education for more than two decades. Amidst abundant proof of the overall successes of ITV programs, there are limited accounts of the pedagogical experiences and challenges encountered by faculty who are called upon to teach distant learning courses. This paper describes a pedagogy of ITV teaching experience derived through a teaching circle in a rural undergraduate program. Method: A teaching circle comprised of four social work faculty enabled data gathering through focused discussion and critical thinking of the ITV teaching experience. Results: Extended preparation, augmenting instructional design and technology to enhance interactivity and instructor comfort with the technology emerge as key observations. Pragmatic barriers like the technology and restricted face-to-face contact are workable challenges. Conclusion: Social Work education would need a sincere examination of the interface of synchronous and asynchronous teaching with sensitivity to context and course curricula.
Globalization, Inequality, and Transnational Activism: A Case Study on Chile
Authors: Garcia Moctezuma
Published: June 2019

Globalization has transformed how states are governed through a neoliberal economic approach that reinforces an unregulated capitalist market. An emphasis on Chile is important because it was the first state in Latin America to apply neoliberalism and has been hailed as a prime example for other developing states to integrate similar strategies to strengthen the local economy. However, inequality continues to persist despite economic gains. A combination of historical struggles affecting victims of the Pinochet era and present struggles with poverty, have resulted in a constant conflict between the power elite and the rest of society. Social movements in Chile have played a pivotal role in raising international awareness and pressuring the local government to protect the rights of highly vulnerable populations. A focus on transnational activism provides an effective medium for local and international advocates to work together toward holding Chile accountable for addressing social disparities.
Acculturation and Life Satisfaction Among Immigrant Mexican Adults
Authors: Marsiglia Flavio F. , Booth Jaime M. , Baldwin Adrienne , Ayers Stephanie
Published: June 2019

The numbers of Mexican Americans living in the United States, many of whom are first generation immigrants, are increasing. The process of immigration and acculturation can be accompanied by stress, as an individual attempts to reconcile two potentially competing sets of norms and values and to navigate a new social terrain. However, the outcomes of studies investigating the relationship between levels of acculturation and well-being are mixed. To further investigate the dynamic of acculturation, this article will address the impact of acculturation and familismo, on reported life satisfaction and resilience among Mexican American adults living in the Southwest (N=307), the majority (89%) of which are immigrants. The findings indicate that bilingual individuals report significantly higher levels of life satisfaction and resilience than their Spanish-speaking counterparts do. Speaking primarily English only predicted higher levels of resilience but not life satisfaction. Implications for social work practice with Mexican American immigrants are discussed.
Carolina del Norte and the New South: Social Work Practice with New Latino Immigrant Communities
Authors: Zerden Lisa de Saxe , Taboada Arianna , Hinson Quentin Joshua
Published: June 2019

Over the past decade, the Latino population in North Carolina has increased 111%. More than half of North Carolina Latinos are foreign-born and most face issues related to immigration, acculturation, and often, discrimination. This article provides a brief overview of the historical context in which social workers engaged with immigrant communities, and argues that the profession brings strengths and unique skills to address North Carolina’s Latino immigrant population, historically, and within the current context. Key social demographics of Latino populations, sociopolitical realities, as well as theoretical and methodological issues related to the complex needs of this diverse population group are addressed. Two examples of Latino vulnerability in North Carolina, HIV/AIDS and discriminatory local immigration enforcement practices, are discussed to further highlight the unique strengths and challenges social workers in North Carolina and the New South face when working with Latino immigrants.
Colombians in the United States: A Study of Their Well-Being
Authors: Madrigal Cándida
Published: June 2019

This study examined the extent to which four factors—acculturation, ethnic identity, self-esteem, and resilience—can explain the well-being of Colombian immigrants in the United States across three waves of immigration (wave 1, from 1945–1964; wave 2, from 1965–1989; and wave 3, from 1990–2008). The results indicate that of the four factors, self-esteem most correlated with and was a predictor of well-being. Participants exhibited high levels of well-being as their level of self-esteem increased. Ethnic identity negatively predicted well-being, especially for men who entered during wave 3; as the extent of their ethnic identity increased, their well-being decreased. Correspondingly, Colombians who entered as political refugees reported a lower level of well-being. This research was groundbreaking in assessing factors contributing to the well-being of Colombian immigrants and assisting in the search for appropriate scales to study this population. Although its results have to be considered with caution, the study opens doors to future research, policies, and programs regarding the mental health assessment and treatment of Colombians in the United States.
Online Practice Course Development with Action Research: A Case Example
Authors: Khaja Khadija , Ouellette Phillip , Barkdull Carenlee , Yaffe Joanne
Published: June 2019

Despite the proliferation of online courses in social work, questions still exist about learning practice skills in an online instructional environment. This paper describes a case example of an action-oriented approach to the development of an online practice course. Lessons learned from students’ and instructor’s perspectives are shared as well as recommendations for future research relative to course development and evaluation of online courses. The study examined student feedback with respect to their overall learning experience. Findings indicated that involving students in the design and development of an online practice course benefited both students and faculty and can be an effective teaching and learning strategy regardless of the instructional medium used.
Hearing the Silence: Children’s Voices on Violence
Authors: Collins Kathryn S.
Published: June 2019

Each year more than five million children in the United States are exposed
to traumatizing events in their communities. This paper presents a discussion of
multiple areas in violence and victimization research that needs to be continued as
well as provides suggestions on how to un-silence child survivors through bridging
the gaps between research and practice. It reviews the overarching problem of violence
in the U.S. at the domestic and global levels and the effects of victimization.
Suggestions on how to study possible mediators and moderators of victimization
and individual and family adjustment, including: 1) The ecological perspective; 2)
Court process and verdict; and 3)Utilization of victim services, are explored. Finally,
a rationale and examples of combining qualitative and quantitative methods in
future research that uses children’s attributions of violence as a mediator are presented.
The Role of Science in Postmodern Practice
Authors: Dybicz Phillip
Published: June 2019

Postmodern thought offers a critique to the heavily science-based approaches of the modernist discourse. Such critiques however tend to obscure the role that science has to play in postmodern practices. The current scientific-based modernist approaches faced this similar challenge when they arose in the early 1900s. In the 1800s, social agents did not base their interventions upon scientific authority, but rather, moral authority. While scientific knowledge displaced moral knowledge as the main guide for developing treatment plans, the field of social work did not abandon moral knowledge as useless. Instead, moral knowledge was transformed into a robust code of ethics—and serves the new role of circumscribing the boundaries within which one employs scientific knowledge. The postmodern discourse calls for this same displacement to occur—it seeks to have scientific knowledge circumscribe the boundaries within which an hermeneutic inquiry driven by a critical consciousness guides social work interventions.
Let’s Talk About Same Sex: How Social Workers Can Make Judges Listen
Authors: Boys Stephanie K.
Published: June 2019

Researchers have created a diverse toolbox of literature reporting that same sex cohabitating relationships are strikingly similar to heterosexual marriages in amicus curiae briefs submitted to the courts. However, judges are trained to fit information into legal frameworks and to ignore data that does not fit the rhetoric of a case. The following article aims to fit existing data on same sex relationships into the framework judges will use to decide whether same sex marriage can be prohibited. The primary precedent used to support same sex marriage is based on the analogy of a case prohibiting marriage discrimination based on race. The legal framework created by this case requires social work policy practitioners to frame research in terms of the evolution that has occurred in scientific understanding of same sex attraction and public opinion. A simple shift in the discourse used to frame the data can significantly impact whether judges listen.
A Portal for a School of Social Work: Going for the Edge
Authors: Vernon Robert , Schultz Cynthia
Published: June 2019

This case study documents how one school of social work addressed the
growing complexity of distributing information by developing a state of the art portal
and website system to serve its many audiences and campuses. Preliminary findings
are discussed.
Booked for theWeek: A Survey of the Use of Bibliotherapy by Licensed Clinical Social Workers
Authors: Vodde Rich , Dixon Danny R. , Giddings Martha M.
Published: June 2019

Despite its general acceptance, there has been no research exploring the
actual use of bibliotherapy by Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs). This study
sought to determine the extent to which LCSWs, represented by a random sample
from one state, used bibliotherapy for specific problems, identified relevant variables
that influence bibliotherapy use,and compiled a list of books currently used by
respondents. Results suggest that bibliotherapy is used for numerous specific problems
and LCSW endorsement of bibliotherapy by LCSWs is similar to that of respondents
in other disciplines. Unlike studies involving other disciplines, LCSW usage
patterns were not related to gender and less related to employment settings.
Understanding Fathering among Native-American Men
Authors: Shears Jeffrey , Bubar Roe , Hall Ronald C.
Published: June 2019

This study explores fathering among self identified Native American men who have been identified as father or father figure to children involved in the Early Head Start Research and Evaluation Project. This research study highlights United States policies and their effects on Native American families particularly fathers. In addition, Native American fathers in this study reported that “being there” for their child was important and described how the manifestation of being there ranged from traditional to contemporary models of fathering. The article concludes with a discussion of specific issues that are important when working with Native fathers that may be of interest to social workers and social service practitioners.
Sequencing Tasks in Developing an Accredited Social Work Program and Assessing Program Outcomes
Authors: Zastrow Charles , Reutebuch Tim
Published: June 2019

Two of the major challenges for developing an accredited social work program are
to sequence the tasks in developing an educational program and to develop
accurate and useful assessment instruments. A model for sequencing the tasks is
presented, and a field placement evaluation instrument is highlighted in assessing
the extent to which students are attaining the program objectives. Programs need to
utilize multiple measures of program outcomes.
Convergence of a strengths perspective and youth development: Toward youth promotion practice
Authors: Cheon Jeong Woong
Published: June 2019

In recent years, increased attention has been paid to the development and application of the strengths perspective and positive youth development. This paper develops youth promotion practice as a convergence of a strengths perspective and youth development principles. Historical and contemporary contexts of a problem-focused perspective in social work with adolescents are reviewed and a critique developed with emphasis on the evolution of strengths-focused practices. The importance and possibility of combining the strengths perspective and youth development toward youth promotion practice are addressed. Youth promotion is defined as a process of enhancing youth strengths and resources to promote positive outcomes and help young people be healthy adults. Complementary aspects of the two perspectives are expected to support and supplement the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective in synergistic ways. Several advantages of youth promotion practice are discussed as well as its implications for improved social work practices with adolescents.
Assessment as Learning: The Role of Minor Assignment in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Adams Paul
Published: June 2019

This article focuses on assessment at the level of the course and classroom,
rather than the program or institution. The assumption that building a culture of
assessment in a socialwork program, or its host university—assessment,understood
as a “rich conversation about student learning informed by data” (Marchese,
2004)—requires that both faculty and students are engaged by assessment as an
activity that directly benefits their own teaching and learning while these are in
progress. Classroom assessment based on the frequent use of minor assignments—
ungraded tasks set by instructors for students to perform in the classroom—offers
this direct and immediate linkage of assessment to learning. The uses and advantages
of minor assignments are described, and the dynamic interplay between
minor assignments and assessment is illustrated with an example from the teaching
of Social Security in a social welfare policy class.
“How do you do it?”: MSW Field Director Survey.
Authors: Dalton Bruce , Stevens Laura , Maas-Brady Jane
Published: June 2019

This paper reports on a survey of MSW field directors in the United States. Results indicate that in some areas there is similarity between field programs, such as field training and orientation, and the student placement process. There was great variety between field programs in the areas of student field requirements, student field credits, and field liaison faculty status. Most field programs report adequate resources but a significant minority report a lack of resources. The benefits of increasing specificity of mandated standards at the cost of lessened program flexibility is discussed.
Factors That Influence Domestic Violence Practice Self-Efficacy: Implications for Social Work
Authors: Danis Fran
Published: June 2019

This article discusses the results of an exploratory study to identify facilitating
factors and barriers for practice self-efficacy with battered women. Based on
self-efficacy theory, personal factors such as professional experience, academic
preparation, personal experience, and continuing education training were explored
with a random sample of licensed and degreed professional social workers.
Professional experience (ß=.61; t=9.54, p=.000) and academic preparation (ß=.26;
t=4.29, p=.000) were the strongest predictors of self-efficacy. These findings suggest
that to advance the capacity of social workers to respond to domestic violence, social
work education, practitioners, and researchers have a number of important steps
available to take.
Cross-cultural Differences in Preferred Forms of Address: Implications for Work with African American Adults
Authors: Collins Wanda Lott , Moore Sharon E.
Published: June 2019

Using an individual’s last name indicates respect and contributes to positive
interaction with African American clients and adults of African descent. This
paper discusses the importance of using social titles as a proper form of address during,
and sometimes after, the initial professional relationship. Two case vignettes
will highlight potential difficulties that non-African American practitioners may
experience when using first names with African Americans within the professional
realm. The vignettes include a scenario for a supervisor and a client.
Pura Vida with a Purpose: Energizing Engagement with Human Rights through Service-Learning
Authors: Ericson Carolyn Bartick
Published: June 2019

This paper examines the effects of an international service-learning course with a strong human rights component. Human rights have social justice as an essential component and advancing both are considered core competencies in social work. International education in colleges and universities has gained in popularity as has service-learning. Research has been carried out in both these areas. However, less research has been done on the combination of the two. In this paper a course is described during which students spent three weeks in Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida, learning about its human rights efforts, its language, getting to know its people, and providing service to some of its citizens. An analysis of student surveys and journals revealed a strengthened belief on the part of the participants that they are competent to have an impact on the world as well as having a responsibility to do so.
Exploring the Impact and Implications of Residential Mobility: From the Neighborhood to the School
Authors: Ersing Robin L. , Sutphen Richard , Loeffler Diane Nicole
Published: June 2019

This cross-sectional study examines residential relocation among a cohort of 495 fifth graders in one urban community in the Southeastern U.S. The impact of residential mobility is discussed in relation to student/family outcomes as well as the stressors placed upon schools. Results support previous findings which suggest residential relocation is correlated with academic problems. In addition, highly mobile students are twice as likely to be referred by teachers for disciplinary intervention and families are five times more likely than their residentially stable counterparts to be involved with child protective services. Implications from this study address the need for school systems, including school social workers, to look beyond the classroom to understand and respond to the needs of highly mobile families.
Indiana University School of Social Work: 90 Years of Professional Education
Authors: Bush Monique , Powers Gerald T. , Metzger David , Behroozi Cyrus S. , Siegel Sheldon , Cournoyer Barry R.
Published: June 2019

In this invited article, the authors review the history and development of
the Indiana University School of Social Work from its origin in 1911 as a small
department to its current status as a large organization offering educational programs
to nearly 900 students on five campuses. One of the nation’s oldest, it is the
only school to offer the full continuum of social work education from the associate
through the doctoral levels. In many respects, the evolution of the School mirrors the
experiences of other schools and departments of social work.As such, the article may
be enlightening to those interested in the history of social work education in this
country.
The Future of Rural Social Work
Authors: Murty Susan A.
Published: June 2019

Over the years, the extensive literature on rural social work has been consistent in its recommendations for local community-based practice and rural generalist practice. However, rural social work is embedded in the larger social work profession which has been moving in the opposite direction from the one advocated by rural social workers. The gradual process of centralization and specialization in the profession now make it almost impossible for social workers to use community-based generalist practice approaches in rural areas. In order to ensure a positive future for rural social work, urban and rural social workers must work together to re-introduce a level of community-based generalist practice within regionalized and specialized social and health service systems. A range of alternative approaches to link community-based rural programs with regional programs is presented.
Engaging Families, Building Relationships: Strategies for Working Across Systems from a Social Exchange Perspective
Authors: Rice Karen , Girvin Heather
Published: June 2019

In child welfare, the relationship between worker and client is viewed as the mechanism through which families may be engaged. Certain settings may complicate the development of a helping relationship and require workers to counter these pressures by developing more effective means of engaging families. Utilizing a social exchange framework, this qualitative study was conducted to explore interactions among parents and professionals in dependency court hearings. Findings revealed that a lack of reciprocity hinders the development of collaborative relationships that could support and assist families. Implications for social work practice are examined.
Prevention as an Explicit Part of the Social Work Profession: Part Two of a Systematic Investigation
Authors: McCave Emily L. , Rishel Carrie , Morris Meagann
Published: June 2019

In 2011, Advances in Social Work published results from an investigation into the explicit use of “prevention” language within the social work profession. Findings from this study highlighted a gap in the knowledge and integration of prevention-focused social work education and practice. A recommendation was made to examine additional indicators that illustrate the extent to which “prevention” is an accepted and growing subfield within the social work academy. This second paper continues the inquiry by examining three additional indicators for integration of prevention content, including: 1) CSWE accredited MSW programs; 2) social work textbooks; and 3) abstracts accepted at two national social work conferences. Although findings demonstrate that about a quarter of MSW programs integrate prevention content into their curriculum there is a lack of prevention content available within social work textbooks and professional conferences for social work scholars and practitioners. Barriers and supports to addressing these issues are discussed.
The Future of School Social Work Practice: Current Trends and Opportunities
Authors: Franklin Cynthia
Published: June 2019

This article discusses the information on school social work practice in the United States and summarizes recent trends and their implications for the future of school social work. The number of school social workers and current infrastructure available for the development of school social work practice is reviewed. Five sociocultural trends are summarized that are affecting public schools as well as important school-based practice trends such as standardized testing, and high stakes accountability measures. The emerging practice trend of evidence-based practices is discussed in light of its standards and implications for school-based practice. Finally, essential knowledge for strengthening practice competencies to meet the future challenges of school-based practice is highlight.