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Practice Research Network
As we move into
the 21st century, the NASW is launching a Practice Research Network
(PRN), a research program that collects and analyzes data on social
work practice as well as a variety of social work service delivery
issues.
Purpose
The NASW PRN seeks
to expand the research knowledge base about social workers and
social work practice. The initial PRN initiative focuses on social
work practice and substance abuse. The results of a survey of practitioners
will fill gaps in knowledge about identification, treatment, and
referral of substance-abusing clients who present for treatment
in private practice settings and in agency settings. Subsequent
PRN initiatives will be tailored to capture information on critical
social work service or policy issues.
Goals
- To develop current
knowledge about the scope and effectiveness of social work practice
by NASW members
- To generate
practice-relevant information for planning future service delivery,
policy, research, and financing decisions pertinent to social
work
- To improve prevention
and treatment outcomes for individuals, groups, families, organizations,
and communities through practice-based research
Confidentiality
All research data
collected is only analyzed at the aggregate level. NASW PRN procedures
are designed to protect the confidentiality of participating social
workers and their clients.
Benefits of Participating
in the PRN
- Participate
in research without intrusive and time-consuming administrative
protocols
- Preserve commitment
to quality social work practice
- Advance the
field of knowledge on practice issues of critical importance
to clinicians, clients, and policymakers about the social work
profession
- Receive regular
communication about the latest findings
- Network with
other PRN participants during the Meeting of the Profession
Results of the
Second Survey
The second NASW
PRN survey was completed during Fall 2002, based on a random sample
of 2000 NASW regular members. Preliminary analysis of the data
has revealed some interesting findings (these files require Adobe
Acrobat Reader):
Results of the
First Survey
The initial NASW
PRN survey was completed during Summer 2000, based on a random
sample of 2000 NASW regular members. Preliminary analysis of the
data has revealed some interesting findings (these files require Adobe
Acrobat Reader):
To obtain more
information about the NASW PRN, please contact the NASW PRN by
e-mail at PRN@naswdc.org.
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About
NASW