Many academics use their research to provide innovative solutions for complex issues.
Social work is no exception. In fact, the importance of sociological research to social workers cannot be overemphasized. Without these professionals’ fresh analysis of certain populations, tired and ineffective approaches may remain in use.
Academics may begin their careers with a bachelor’s degree in social work, and take on research positions when they enroll in master’s or doctorate degree programs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The military is one population that researchers have recently highlighted. The Shorthorn reports that soldiers often avoid seeking counseling because they are wary of the associated stigma.
To remedy this, social work professor Alexa Smith-Osborne is planning a research study of the counseling needs of soldiers before and after deployment. Working with a medical social worker in the army, Smith-Osborne will supervise the cases of a number of enlistees, to develop support plans that are “off the record” for servicemen, the outlet reports.
Each year, new findings from other fields prompt reform of popular ideas in social work. For example, issues that have traditionally been considered the lot of government – poverty, healthcare, the environment – are being addressed by leaders in business.
Michael Porter of Harvard Business School has, in recent years, researched the economic health of the inner city. He has concluded that business leaders must invest in urban neighborhoods for the American inner city to gain a competitive advantage.
Leaders of social services may bristle at Porter’s recommendations for collaboration between the private and public sector. However, Porter emphasizes that the community-based organization (CBO), which is comprised of social workers, is a key link between low-resource individuals and wider sources of capital.
CBOs have detailed knowledge of the individuals residing in local communities. Porter notes that these social service organizations can work as liaisons between employable residents and businesses that are seeking workers.
If an urban community were to collaborate with a large corporation to create employment opportunities, social work researchers would be at the front lines to track the effects of this change on residents. They could create further recommendations on the future roles of the CBO. They could also assess whether or not a local social services center has outdated approaches or attitudes that actually work against the long-term interests of local residents.
