Recalibrating micro and macro social work: student perceptions of social action

ABSTRACT

As underscored by their professional code of ethics, all social workers are called to engage in social action that advances social justice. Yet, the focus of the profession has drifted toward individual treatment and away from social reform. Drawing upon data from an online survey of graduate social work students (N= 199) in the United States, this study explores the role of student perceptions relating to the importance of and their confidence in engaging in social action. Specifically, we assess whether perceptions vary according to practice level (micro or macro), social identity, or survey completion date (before or after the 2016 United States presidential election). Findings suggest that respondents exhibit a high degree of interest and confidence in social action with limited variation on the basis of their practice level or background characteristics. Furthermore, the 2016 presidential election did little to change perceptions of social action. This suggests that the profession’s marginalization of macro practice is not necessarily driven by student interest or confidence.

KEYWORDS:

• social justice
• United States presidential election
• social work graduate students
• student confidence
• activism

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Amy Krings

Amy Krings is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago.

Charla Trubey-Hockman

Charla Trubey-Hockman earned a dual master’s degree in social work and social justice from Loyola University Chicago.

Michael P. Dentato

Michael P. Dentato is an Associate Professor of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago.

Susan Grossman

Susan Grossman is a Professor of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago.