Examples Of Research Questions In Social Work

Examples of Research Questions in Social Work: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Are you a social work student grappling with formulating a compelling research question? Or perhaps a seasoned professional looking to delve deeper into a specific area of practice through rigorous research? Finding the right research question is the cornerstone of any successful social work study. It's the compass guiding your investigation, dictating methodology, and ultimately shaping your findings. This comprehensive guide provides a wealth of examples of research questions in social work, categorized for clarity, and offering insights into crafting your own impactful inquiries. We'll explore various research designs and delve into the nuances of creating questions that are both researchable and ethically sound. Prepare to unlock the potential of your research journey!

I. Understanding the Foundation: Types of Research Questions

Before diving into specific examples, it's crucial to understand the different types of research questions social workers frequently employ. These often fall under broad categories:

Descriptive Questions: These aim to describe a phenomenon. They answer "what," "where," and "when" questions. For example: What are the common experiences of undocumented immigrants accessing healthcare services? These questions often lay the groundwork for more complex investigations.

Exploratory Questions: These delve deeper into understanding the "how" and "why" behind a phenomenon. They often use qualitative methods to uncover underlying factors. For example: How do societal stigma and discrimination impact the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth?

Explanatory Questions: These aim to establish causal relationships between variables. They seek to answer "why" and "to what extent" questions. A strong explanatory question often requires a quantitative approach. For example: To what extent does parental involvement correlate with improved academic outcomes for children in foster care?

Evaluative Questions: These assess the effectiveness or impact of a specific intervention or program. They are commonly used to inform policy and practice. For example: What is the effectiveness of a trauma-informed approach in reducing recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals?

II. Examples of Research Questions by Social Work Area

Let's examine specific examples categorized by common social work practice areas:

A. Child Welfare:

Descriptive: What are the most prevalent risk factors associated with child neglect in low-income families?
Exploratory: How do foster children experience transitions between placements, and what are their coping mechanisms?
Explanatory: Does early intervention for at-risk families reduce the likelihood of child maltreatment?
Evaluative: Does a specific parenting skills program improve parental responsiveness and reduce child behavioral problems?

B. Mental Health:

Descriptive: What are the common symptoms experienced by individuals with anxiety disorders in rural communities?
Exploratory: How do cultural beliefs influence help-seeking behaviors among individuals experiencing depression?
Explanatory: Does mindfulness-based stress reduction reduce the severity of PTSD symptoms among veterans?
Evaluative: Does a specific cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program improve the quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia?

C. Substance Abuse:

Descriptive: What are the prevalence rates of opioid addiction among young adults in urban areas?
Exploratory: How do peer support groups influence the recovery process for individuals struggling with substance abuse?
Explanatory: Does access to methadone maintenance treatment reduce overdose deaths?
Evaluative: Does a specific relapse prevention program decrease the likelihood of substance abuse relapse?

D. Healthcare:

Descriptive: What are the healthcare access barriers faced by homeless individuals?
Exploratory: How do healthcare providers experience moral distress when providing end-of-life care?
Explanatory: Does increased access to telehealth services improve health outcomes for patients in remote areas?
Evaluative: Does a specific patient navigation program improve adherence to medication regimens for chronic illnesses?

E. School Social Work:

Descriptive: What are the academic achievement gaps between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds?
Exploratory: How do bullying behaviors impact the social-emotional development of elementary school children?
Explanatory: Does participation in school-based mentoring programs improve student attendance and graduation rates?
Evaluative: Does a specific intervention program reduce the number of school suspensions among at-risk students?

III. Crafting Your Own Research Question: Key Considerations

Developing a strong research question requires careful consideration:

Relevance: Does your question address a significant issue in social work practice or policy?
Feasibility: Is your question researchable within the constraints of time, resources, and access to data?
Clarity: Is your question clear, concise, and unambiguous?
Ethical Considerations: Does your question protect the rights and well-being of participants?

IV. Moving Forward: From Question to Research Project

Once you've crafted a compelling research question, the next step involves developing a comprehensive research plan that includes your methodology, data collection techniques, and data analysis plan. Remember to consult with your supervisor or mentor for guidance and support throughout the process.

V. Conclusion:

Formulating a strong research question is the foundation of impactful social work research. By understanding the different types of research questions and considering the key factors discussed, you can embark on a journey of discovery, generating valuable insights that can improve the lives of those you serve. Remember to stay focused, remain ethical, and embrace the learning process.

Article Outline: Examples of Research Questions in Social Work

Name: A Comprehensive Guide to Research Questions in Social Work

Introduction: Hook, overview of the guide's contents.
Chapter 1: Types of Research Questions: Descriptive, exploratory, explanatory, evaluative. Examples of each.
Chapter 2: Examples by Social Work Area: Child welfare, mental health, substance abuse, healthcare, school social work. Multiple examples within each area.
Chapter 3: Crafting Effective Research Questions: Relevance, feasibility, clarity, ethics. Practical tips.
Chapter 4: From Question to Research Project: Methodology, data collection, analysis. Next steps.
Conclusion: Recap, encouragement for further research.

(The body of this outline has been addressed comprehensively in the preceding sections.)

FAQs:

1. What is the difference between descriptive and explanatory research questions? Descriptive questions describe phenomena, while explanatory questions seek to understand causal relationships.

2. How do I choose the right type of research question for my study? Your choice depends on your research goals and the nature of your phenomenon of interest.

3. What are some ethical considerations when formulating research questions? Ensure participant confidentiality, informed consent, and minimal risk.

4. How can I make sure my research question is feasible? Consider your resources, time constraints, and access to data.

5. What if I'm struggling to formulate a research question? Consult with a mentor, supervisor, or colleague.

6. What is the role of a literature review in developing a research question? It helps you identify gaps in the existing research and refine your focus.

7. Are qualitative and quantitative methods appropriate for all research questions? No, the choice of methodology depends on the type of question and research goals.

8. How can I ensure my research question is clear and concise? Use precise language, avoid jargon, and focus on a single, well-defined topic.

9. Where can I find more examples of research questions in social work? Explore academic journals, dissertations, and theses in the field.

Related Articles:

1. Ethical Considerations in Social Work Research: Discusses the ethical implications of research involving vulnerable populations.
2. Qualitative Research Methods in Social Work: Explores various qualitative approaches for data collection and analysis.
3. Quantitative Research Methods in Social Work: Focuses on quantitative methods like surveys and statistical analysis.
4. Mixed Methods Research in Social Work: Explores combining qualitative and quantitative approaches.
5. Writing a Literature Review in Social Work: Provides guidance on conducting a comprehensive literature review.
6. Developing a Strong Research Proposal: Details the components of a successful research proposal.
7. Data Analysis Techniques for Social Work Research: Covers various data analysis techniques suitable for social work research.
8. Disseminating Social Work Research Findings: Explains how to effectively share research findings with relevant audiences.
9. The Role of Evidence-Based Practice in Social Work: Highlights the importance of research in informing social work practice.

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examples of research questions in social work: Quantitative Research Methods for Social Work Barbra Teater, John Devaney, Donald Forrester, 2017-09-16 Quantitative research makes a very important contribution to both understanding and responding effectively to the problems that social work service users face. In this unique and authoritative text, a group of expert authors explore the key areas of data collection, analysis and evaluation and outline in detail how they can be applied to practice.
examples of research questions in social work: Practising Social Work Research Rick Csiernik, Rachel Birnbaum, 2017-04-24 Research skills are as critical to social work practitioners as skills in individual and group counselling, policy analysis, and community development. Adopting strategies similar to those used in direct practice courses, this book integrates research with social work practice, and in so doing promotes an understanding and appreciation of the research process. This second edition of Practising Social Work Research comprises twenty-three case studies that illustrate different research approaches, including quantitative, qualitative, single-subject, and mixed methods. Six are new to this edition, and examine research with First Nations, organizing qualitative data, and statistics. Through these real-life examples, the authors demonstrate the processes of conceptualization, operationalization, sampling, data collection and processing, and implementation. Designed to help the student and practitioner become more comfortable with research procedures, Practising Social Work Research capitalizes on the strengths that social work students bring to assessment and problem solving.
examples of research questions in social work: Neuroscience and Social Work Practice Rosemary L. Farmer, 2008-12-17 Over the past 30 years, findings in the neurosciences have grown exponentially and have provided a profound understanding of the link between behavior and biology. Although the Social Work community has long taken pride in using a bio-psycho-social-spiritual (BPSS) framework in conceptualization and intervention, the biological aspect of this BPSS framework has been sorely missing. Neuroscience and Social Work Practice provides the critical missing link. Introducing the latest neuroscience research, it gives practitioners essential data—in an easily accessible form—with which to take on the challenges of increasingly complex human problems and diagnoses. Key Features Takes readers on a tour of the brain and makes dense scientific material more engaging Provides a framework for how human service professionals can understand and implement neuroscience clinical data with the use of the Transactional Model Uses case vignettes to explain how neuroscience findings have been applied to specific practice situations Offers a deeper understanding of the links between neuroscience research and social work in such areas as trauma, attachment, psychotherapy, substance abuse, and the effects of psychotropic medications Intended Audience This cutting-edge text is indispensable for practitioners in the human services field and is an essential supplement for upper-level undergraduate or graduate students of courses in Human Behavior in the Social Environment and Social Work Direct Practice as well as courses on Interpersonal Practice with Individuals, Children, and Families.
examples of research questions in social work: Research Methods for Generalist Social Work Christine R. Marlow, 2023-02-28 Social work professionals must have a deep understanding of research methods to effectively serve their clients and communities. In this comprehensive guide, Christine Marlow emphasizes this link between research and practice. She focuses on the relevance of research methods within agency work, where most social work graduates will be employed, rather than strictly an academic setting. With a focus on generalist social work practice, she offers a clear and concise overview of the research process, including identifying research questions, selecting appropriate research designs, and analyzing data. Using real-world examples and case studies, Marlow helps readers understand how research can be used to inform social work practice and drive positive change in communities. With a strong emphasis on ethics and cultural competence, this text prepares social work students and professionals to conduct research that is both effective and socially responsible.
examples of research questions in social work: Your Undergraduate Dissertation in Health and Social Care Nicholas Walliman, Jane Appleton, 2009-07-23 Your Undergraduate Dissertation in Health and Social Care provides a practical step-by-step guide to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the process of doing an undergraduate dissertation, equipping the reader with all the skills necessary to plan, conduct and write up a research project successfully. This is a revised edition of Nicholas Walliman′s best-selling Your Undergraduate Dissertation, which has been specially tailored to the needs of those studying health, social care and related subjects. All the central topics are covered, with comprehensive information and guidance on crucial issues such as ethics, research governance and appraising the quality of the evidence. Relevant ′real life′ examples are also included, drawn from a wide range of settings. This guide offers a genuinely accessible and supportive source of advice that will be welcomed by undergraduates in working towards their final year dissertation in health and social care. SAGE Study Skills are essential study guides for students of all levels. From how to write great essays and succeeding at university, to writing your undergraduate dissertation and doing postgraduate research, SAGE Study Skills help you get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips, resources and videos on study success!
examples of research questions in social work: Research Methods for Social Workers Samuel S. Faulkner, Cynthia A. Faulkner, 2018-08-22 From the outset, the ultimate goal of Research Methods for Social Workers has been to serve as a research text that students would be able to understand and read in full. This third edition features important additions and changes to the original text (while maintaining its accessible style). The order of chapters is re-arranged to improve the flow of introducing and developing concepts of the research process, and the authors have included some much-needed information to meet the changing and evolving standards of social work education. At its core, this book is designed to bring complex ideas down to a level that can be grasped by someone with little to no knowledge of research methods - it is an invaluable resource for social work students and anyone who wishes to have a comprehensive introduction to research methods.
examples of research questions in social work: Doing Social Work Research Smith, Roger, 2009-09-01 The book provides a well written guide that adeptly captures the sensitivities and complex implications of both research process and dissemination within the ever changing and highly regulated world of social work. Victoria Foster,Research Associate, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work,University of Manchester, UK, in British Journal of Social Work June 2010 This book offers many practical examples of research projects taken from the author's own experience as a researcher. These examples illustrate the usually complex concepts of research methodology by showing how they are practised in the real world of social work, so the title is apt. Especially useful are the common features of social work research discussed at length in the final chapter, as a way of finding common ground in the disputed terrain of social work as a profession, and in social work research in particular. Heather D'Cruz, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Australia As a third year social work student I found this book a good consolidation of what I have been learning this semester in my research and evaluation module. It has helped me with my end of module assignment, to demonstrate my understanding of social work research through a detailed literature search ... I found the practical examples of actual pieces of research particularly useful in getting an idea of how particular methods are used. I have found this book very useful as it has helped clarify the meaning of the research terminology and given me a good understanding of the overall process. Sally Biskin, Social Work Student, Bangor University, UK This accessible book is based on the author's extensive practical experience of carrying out and teaching research in the social work field. Social work research is shown to be both a distinctive academic enterprise and a task that can be accomplished effectively in line with the values and ethical principles that lie at the discipline's core. Doing Social Work Research helps intending researchers to relate 'methodology' to 'method', so that they can make authoritative decisions about how to turn initial research questions into valid and feasible investigative strategies. In doing so, it introduces and evaluates a wide range of approaches across the spectrum of social work research. Building on this, the book provides detailed guidance on how to organize the research task, paying close attention to the practicalities of planning, preparation, implementation and management of investigations. Doing Social Work Research features: A comprehensive overview of social work research methods Detailed guidance on ‘how to’ carry out research in social work Illustrative examples of research practice from personal experience Effective links between core social work values, purposes, methodologies and research practices This book is a valuable resource for social work students and practitioners carrying out research projects as well as practicing researchers and research educators in the discipline.
examples of research questions in social work: Understanding Research for Social Policy and Social Work Saul Becker, Alan Bryman, Harry Ferguson, Thomas Harold Ferguson, 2012-03-14 Thoroughly revised and expanded, this new edition of Understanding Research for Social Policy and Social Work shows readers the importance of research, how to interpret it, and how to effectively carry out and report research of their own. This landmark textbook is an essential guide to the methods, approaches, and debates that are required knowledge for students, policymakers, and practitioners.
examples of research questions in social work: Research Methods for Social Workers Linda Bell, 2017-09-16 This handy book is a one-stop introduction to research and evaluation for social workers. Including unique project examples, exercises, discussion points and extensive signposting to further reading, and drawing on the author's many years of teaching experience, it is essential reading for students who may be unfamiliar with research methods.
examples of research questions in social work: Research Design for Social Work and the Human Services Jeane W. Anastas, 2000-01-28 Research Design for Social Work and the Human Services integrates a range of research techniques into a single epistemological framework and presents a balanced approach to the teaching of research methods in the helping professions. Jeane W. Anastas begins with a discussion of the different philosophical perspectives within which social research occurs and continues with problem formulation, research design, and methodological issues influencing data collection, analysis, and dissemination. She presents both fixed (quantitative) and flexible (qualitative) methods of research, granting legitimacy, value, utility, and relevance to both styles of inquiry. Utilizing complete case studies to illustrate different methodological approaches, Research Design for Social Work and the Human Services integrates material on women and people of color, and draws attention to the ways racism, heterosexism, sexism, and classism affect the conceptualization and conduct of research. Anastas not only exposes these biases but actively addresses the experiences, needs, and concerns of clients of both genders and different races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, cultures, and classes.
examples of research questions in social work: Essentials of Qualitative Inquiry Maria J. Mayan, 2023-05-16 The second edition of Maria J. Mayan’s Essentials of Qualitative Inquiry is written for newcomers interested in applied research, regardless of discipline. It provides what the reader needs to begin to explore, appreciate, and deeply understand our social world. The new edition maintains the straightforward, conversational style and passionate support for qualitative work of the first edition while addressing numerous changes in the field. Mayan avoids paint-by-number formulas while helping novices learn many of the approaches, methodologies, and techniques used by experienced researchers. She helps readers confront the ambiguities and ethical issues in doing a field project and addresses some of the main debates in the field. After nearly three decades of teaching this subject herself, Mayan can anticipate and address the most common questions students will raise. Features of the new edition include: More emphasis on theoretical orientations Added sections on arts-based research, mixed methods, systematic reviews, and participatory research A unique approach to conducting qualitative analysis Advice on self-care for the researcher Summary tables, appendices with useful tools and templates, and practical exercises at the end of each chapter make this the perfect vehicle to introduce students to the complex world of qualitative inquiry
examples of research questions in social work: Qualitative Methods in Social Work Research Deborah K. Padgett, 2016-05-25 Qualitative Methods in Social Work Research provides accessible, how-to instruction for carrying out rigorous qualitative research. Deborah K. Padgett’s thoroughly revised Third Edition offers a comprehensive introduction to qualitative methods based on six major approaches: ethnography, grounded theory, case study, narrative, phenomenological, and participatory action research. Readers will appreciate the book’s ease of use, friendly writing style, and helpful cases/examples that combine attention to methodological rigor with pragmatic concerns for real-world relevance.
examples of research questions in social work: Social Work Research Methods Reginald O. York, 2019-01-04 Social Work Research Methods is a step-by-step journey through the process of conducting research. With over 30 years of teaching experience, author Reginald O. York helps readers discover how research can enable them to better serve clients in the field. Each chapter features a hands-on approach to producing research, with practical chapter exercises that reinforce methods mastery. Using their own data, students engage in realistic research activities and gain an appreciation for science-informed practice as a means of evaluating client outcomes.
examples of research questions in social work: Introduction to Social Work: A Writing Approach to Professional Discovery Michael A. Wright, 2015-11-23 In this Introduction to Social Work text, the Hegelian Dialectic (thesis, antithesis, synthesis) is introduced. An example essay is provided at the end of each chapter. A rubric is also provided in this text to support evaluation of the form requirement. The goal is for students to learn and practice logical writing and receive an introduction to synthesis/integration. Students practice the ability to articulate how two contradictory ideas can coexist. The reward reveals itself in later classes. Logic discussions and literature review are potentially less dualistic. Students evidence a greater tolerance for ambiguity and opposing viewpoints during discussions.
examples of research questions in social work: Social Work Research for Social Justice Beth Humphries, 2008-04-28 Students of social work need to understand the contribution of research, as part of this evidence base, to effective practice. This textbook introduces students to a range of research methods at a practical level and sensitises them to the political dimension of research.
examples of research questions in social work: The Practice of Research in Social Work Rafael J. Engel, Russell K. Schutt, 2016-01-14 The authors are proud sponsors of the 2020 SAGE Keith Roberts Teaching Innovations Award—enabling graduate students and early career faculty to attend the annual ASA pre-conference teaching and learning workshop. The Fourth Edition of The Practice of Research in Social Work introduces an integrated set of techniques for evaluating research and practice problems as well as conducting studies. Evidence-based practice comes alive through illustrations of actual social work research. Updated with new examples, the latest research, and expanded material on technology and qualitative methods, this popular text helps readers achieve the 2015 EPAS core competencies essential for social work practice..
examples of research questions in social work: Fundamentals of Social Work Research Rafael J. Engel, Russell K. Schutt, 2014-01-14 Designed to help students develop skills in evaluating research and conducting studies, this brief version of Rafael J. Engel and Russell K. Schutt’s popular, The Practice of Research in Social Work, makes principles of evidence-based practice come alive through illustrations of actual social work research. With integration of the CSWE Competencies, the text addresses issues and concerns common to the discipline and encourages students to address diversity and ethics when planning and evaluating research studies. The Second Edition includes a focus on qualitative research, a new chapter on research ethics, new sections on mixed methods research and community-based participatory research, and more.
examples of research questions in social work: Research Skills for Social Work Andrew Whittaker, 2012-06-22 Social Work students often find research an intimidating and complex area of study, with many struggling to understand the core concepts and their application to practice. This book presents these concepts in an accessible and user-friendly way. Key skills and methods such as literature reviews, interviews, and questionnaires are explored in detail while the underlying ethical reasons for doing good research underpin the text. For this second edition, new material on ethnography is added.
examples of research questions in social work: The Oxford Textbook of Palliative Social Work Terry Altilio, Shirley Otis-Green, John G. Cagle, 2022 It is so important to advocate for things that may not always seem possible. Getting to work with patients/families at the end of their life is the ultimate honor. - Lauren G Markham, MSW, LCSW, APHSW-C In this work, one witnesses both depths of human suffering and heights of human transcendence that can inspire both awe and fear. At those times, I have found that surrendering my need to be an expert and instead, allow myself to simply be a human is the wisest action. - Kerry Irish, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW--
examples of research questions in social work: The Routledge Handbook of Social Work Practice Research Lynette Joubert, Martin Webber, 2020-04-13 The Routledge Handbook of Social Work Practice Research is the first international handbook to focus on practice research for social work. Bringing together leading scholars in the field from Europe, the USA and the Asia Pacific region, it provides an up-to-the minute overview of the latest thinking in practice research whilst also providing practical advice on how to undertake practice research in the field. It is divided into five sections: State of the art Methodologies Pedagogies Applications Expanding the frontiers The range of topics discussed will enhance student development as well as increase the capacity of practitioners to conduct research; develop coordinating and leadership roles; and liaise with multiple stakeholders who will strengthen the context base for practice research. As such, this handbook will be essential reading for all social work students, practitioners and academics as well as those working in other health and social care settings.
examples of research questions in social work: Handbook of Oncology Social Work Grace Hyslop Christ, Carolyn Messner, Lynn C. Behar, 2015 The development of this inaugural Handbook of Oncology Social Work: Psychosocial Care for People With Cancer provides a repository of the scope of oncology social workers' clinical practice, education, research, policy and program leadership in the psychosocial care of people with cancer and their families. It focuses on the unique synergy of social work perspectives, values, knowledge, and skills with the psychosocial needs of cancer patients, their families, and the health care systems in which they are treated. It addresses both the science and art of psychosocial care and identifies the increasing specialization of oncology social work related to its unique knowledge base, skills, role, and the progressive complexity of psychosocial challenges for patients with cancer. This Handbook equips the reader with all that we know today in oncology social work about patient and family centered care, distress screening, genetics, survivorship, care coordination, sociocultural and economic diversity, legal and ethical matters, clinical work with adults living with cancer, cancer across the lifespan, their caregivers and families, pediatrics, loss and grief, professional career development, leadership, and innovation. Our hope is that in reading this Handbook you will identify new areas where each of you can leave your mark as innovators and change agents in our evolving field of practice.
examples of research questions in social work: Doing Research in Social Work and Social Care Catherine Flynn, Fiona McDermott, 2016-10-19 From understanding the concepts of research and gathering data, to writing it all up and sharing knowledge, this book will guide your students to become researchers by giving them: a confident start with clarity on core concepts and getting it right ethically step-by-step guidance at each point in the research process, showing them diversity in approaches, the impact of context and how to overcome problems case studies of how real researchers embrace the challenges, surprises and successes of research an emphasis on the person in context, so their research is reflective of the realities of social work and social care practice a guide to writing it up and achieving impact and positive change with research.