The use of evidence in social work practice : facilitators and barriers

Abstract

Research has shown that lack of time, resources and research knowledge could be the main barriers to using evidence in social work practice. This research explores other possible barriers and facilitators. Through an integrative literature review, empirical research has been analysed. The study adopts a mixed-method (constructivist) grounded theory method (MMGTM). The methods include a survey questionnaire and qualitative interviews. Data from 412 responses (62.6% participation rate) and 18 interviews are still being analysed using the Constant Comparative Method (CCM) between data, coding, categories and concepts. More data might be collected until theoretical saturation is reached. Participants so far include professional social workers (front liners, managers and academics) in Malta. Using theoretical sampling, other participants, such as service users, are not excluded. Participation is voluntary, confidential and anonymous. Emerging themes suggest that barriers such as restricted professional discretion, superficial practice and low reading level contribute to the minimal use of evidence in social work. In a highly specialised and managerialist setting, with increasingly restricted 'turf', social workers are likely to become more like social technicians who follow top-down procedures. Evidence-based practice (EBP) means many things to social workers, supervisors, managers, academics and policymakers; EBP has been inflated, misused and misunderstood. The study aims to propose a pragmatic and grounded theory that explains the dynamic processes that social workers deal with while implementing evidence in their day-to-day practice.