Foundations of Evidence-based Social Work Practice

This concise introduction to evidence-based social work is a student-friendly overview of the issues and methods most frequently encountered while preparing for evidence-based social work practice. Part I defines terms and critical issues, introducing students to the language and importance of evidence-based practice and critical thinking. Chapters will explain how to search for and evaluate evidence, how to ask the right questions, how to develop standards, and how to make use of the best research. Part II illustrates practical applications, including such topics as cognitive-behavioral approaches to suicide risks, manualized treatment with children, treating juvenile delinquents, and interventions for OCD, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, depression, and recovery. This much-needed overview familiarizes students with the process and practice of evidence-based social work, teaching them to be critical thinkers and judicious decision-makers. The guidelines it distills are equally valuable to seasoned practitioners seeking to better serve their clients, making this an excellent foundation for the study and practice of evidence-based social work.

Albert R. Roberts, Ph.D., is Professor of Social Work and Criminal Justice at Rutgers University. His most recent books include Crisis Intervention Handbook, Third Edition (2005), Juvenile Justice Sourcebook (2004), and Social Workers' Desk Reference (2002).
Kenneth R. Yeager, Ph.D., is Director of Quality and Operational Improvement at Ohio State University and Harding Behavioral Healthcare and Medicine as well as Director of OSU and Harding Outpatient Psychiatric Clinics.