Support for Evidence-Based Practice in a Human Service Organization

Abstract

Developing evidence-based or research-informed approaches to practice in human services requires research-oriented cultures in organizations. One feature of this is frontline staff that are engaged with and supportive of evidence-based practice (EBP) approaches. This paper reports on a study of staff support for EBP in an organization where senior management made a commitment to EBP. Utilizing several measures of support for EBP, including two standardized scales, the study found strong support for EBP. Findings indicate that, in this organization, being female, having higher qualifications, and being at a higher level in the organization are associated with greater support for EBP and that years employed in the organization is negatively correlated with support for EBP.

Keywords:

• evidence-based practice
• research-informed practice
• staff attitudes

Acknowledgments

The author would like to acknowledge Prof. Mel Gray, Prof. Stephen Webb, and Dr Elyssa Joy, EBP Research Project reference group, Research Institute for Social Inclusion and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Australia, as well as Nic Croce, statistical consultant, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Australia, and the management and staff of Life Without Barriers for participating as the case study organization.