Attitudes, Self-Efficacy, and Feasibility: Exploring Social Work Students’ Perceptions of Evidence-Based Practice

ABSTRACT

Purpose

The literature on evidence-based practice (EBP) in social work indicates a complex relationship between practitioners’ attitudes, views on feasibility, and self-efficacy related to EBP implementation.

Method

Qualitative interviews and a self-report questionnaire were completed with 8 social work students. A conceptual framework of their perceptions was developed through thematic analysis.

Results

Participants reported mixed EBP attitudes, as both a practice “ideal”, but also oppressive, rigid, and dehumanizing. Low confidence regarding research skills affected participants’ self-efficacy. Resource constraints impacted feasibility through organizational culture and available practice-relevant research.

Discussion

EBP misconceptions critically impacted educational practices, organizational culture, and practitioners’ attitudes. Comprehensive education mindful of professional identity may address misconceptions and enhance self-efficacy. EBP-enabling organizational change and practice-relevant research may alleviate resource constraints.

Conclusion

Research should expand on how EBP attitudes and social work identity intersect, the impact of research skills on self-efficacy, and EBP barriers and facilitators in education and organizations.

KEYWORDS:

• Evidence-based practice
• social work education
• attitudes
• self-efficacy
• feasibility
• implementation