Getting Connected to fMRI Technology and Methodology in Social Work Research

This workshop aims to build an understanding and application of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for social work researchers. fMRI provides a non-invasive measure of brain structure and function, and is the leading functional neuroimaging technology in cognitive neuroscience research. Social work adheres to the biopsychosocial model of development yet the biological domain is frequently excluded from study designs. Neuroscientific research within the social sciences has grown considerably, and this direction presents exciting and innovative opportunities for social work researchers. Recent advancements in functional neuroimaging provides a complimentary and unique vantage point to understand, define and build cutting-edge social work interventions to improve conditions for clients and society. Importantly, extramural funding agencies, such as the NIH, seek interdisciplinary proposals that can integrate the biological and psychosocial underpinnings of health and disease.