(328) Research Beliefs and Barriers to Evidence Based Practice Among CF Social Workers

Background: This exploratory study surveyed beliefs of research and Evidence Based Practice (EBP) among CF social workers. Parrish and Rubin [1] reported about half of the social workers surveyed used EBP, despite past results suggesting that social workers believe that EBP improves client outcomes [2]. This discrepancy may be attributed to barriers social workers have reported, including a lack the agency resources to carry out EBP [3]. As part of QI initiatives and the introduction of the mental health coordinator role, social workers are becoming more involved with research and evaluation.

Methods: A mixed methods exploratory study was utilized to understand perceptions and experiences of EPB. Recruitment through the CF Social Work email list serv to complete an anonymous online survey. Quantitative data collection included demographic data, work experience, and the Gregory Research Beliefs Scale. Quantitative data were analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory data analyses. Qualitative data were collected concurrently with three open-ended questions and analyzed using Grounded Theory methods.

Results: The majority of the sample was white non-Hispanic (83.3%), female (88.9%), MSW (98.14%), and urban work setting (74.1%), n=53. The mean number of years since degree completion was 15.67 and average age was 42.9. Over two-thirds of the sample reported using research in their work. The sample overwhelmingly reported support of EBP. Positive responses to the research beliefs items inferred positive beliefs and 25 out of 27 items had >50% responses indicate a degree of agreement. Respondents reported the most support for the influence of research in social and agency policy, the importance of the role of research in competent social work practice, and the value of research from social work researchers. The qualitative exploration identified inadequacy of resources as the theme of this study. This theme was supported by participants' discussions of the need for support, education, and professional credibility.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that while CF social workers strongly believe EBP and research knowledge are important to practice, there remains an inadequacy of resources within the CF social work community. Despite the negative impacts of the barriers identified, participants reported a high rate of connection to their patients. The need for support, education, and professional credibility is imperative to provide resources to these professionals. The findings of this exploratory study regarding perceptions of EBP among CF social workers responsiveness urge future opportunities for research specific continuing education and practical interventions.

Acknowledgements:

References: 1. Rubin A, Parrish DE. Comparing social worker and non-social worker outcomes: a research review. Soc Work [Internet]. 2012;57(4):309–20. Available from: https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/sw/sws015



2. Parrish DE, Oxhandler HK. Social work field instructors’ views and implementation of evidence-based practice. J Soc Work Educ [Internet]. 2015;51(2):270–86. Available from: https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10437797.2015.1012943



3. Gray M, Joy E, Plath D, Webb SA. Implementing evidence-based practice: A review of the empirical research literature. Res Soc Work Pract [Internet]. 2013;23(2):157–66. Available from: https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1049731512467072