Experimental Research Designs in Social Work: Theory and Applications

In the fall of 2023 the presenter published a book with Columbia University Press titled Experimental Research Designs in Social Work. The book's chapters include a presentation of the characteristics of true experimental research studies involving large numbers of participants, the philosophy of science underpinning experimental investigation, the various types of experimental designs ranging from posttest only controlled comparisons of interventions through randomized stepped wedge cluster investigations, how to effectively recruit underserved populations, and the ethics of experimentation. Many social work experiments involve vignette studies intended to examine the clinical decision making process. A highlight of the book is a comprehensive bibliography of over 1000 true experiments authored and published by professional social workers, beginning in the 1940s, through 2022. Hardcopies of this bibliography will be distributed to those attending this session. Contrary to commonly held views, the design and conduct of true experimental studies within the field of social work is not uncommon, need not be expensive to undertake nor require external grant funding, and can be ethically appropriate. The diversity of interventions tested and the psychosocial and health conditions investigated will be illustrated. The profession of social work has a 80-year history of publishing experimental studies, many of which have appeared in leading scientific journals. The publication of experimental social work studies is growing exponentially and many true experiments can be conducted by individual practitioners and within single agencies. Those attending will be able to ask questions of the author relating to effective methods of locating experimental publications written by social workers, by using a variety of electronic and non-electronic means, and ways in which the design and conduct of experimental studies can continue to be promoted within the field. In some circumstances, selected forms of experiments such as randomized clinical trials (RCTs), are an excellent way to determine the causal effects of interventions. Through the conduct of experimental evaluations of social work interventions, the field will be in a better position to demonstrate the empirical foundations of policies and practices.