Correlates of Attitudes Toward Evidence-Based Practice Among MSW Students Preparing for Direct Practice

ABSTRACT

This study aims to identify correlates of attitudes toward evidence-based treatment (EBT) and the evidence-based practice (EBP) process among master’s of social work (MSW) students who intend to be direct service practitioners. Participating MSW students (N =165) were recruited from an advanced research methods course at one university in the Southwest United States. Higher score to feasibility of implementing EBP at their field placement agencies predicted more positive attitudes toward EBT and the EBP process. Research knowledge and previous exposure to EBP were positively associated with the EBP process. Findings suggest that MSW programs could benefit from training social work students in EBT and the EBP process within field education, as well as during the first year of an MSW program.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hyunsung Oh

Hyunsung Oh is assistant professor at the Arizona State University.

Charlene Poola

Charlene Poola is a doctoral candidate at the Arizona State University.

Jill Messing

Jill Messing is associate professor at the Arizona State University.

Kristin Ferguson

Kristin Ferguson is professor at the Arizona State University.

Robin Bonifas

Robin Bonifas is a professor at the Indiana State University.