SOWK 631 Assignment

Theory, Research, and Evidence-Based Practice Paper
Assignment Overview
Social work practitioners can no longer rely solely on their desire to help as the primary criterion for effective intervention. Contemporary professional practice requires the ability to demonstrate that interventions are effective for specific problems and client populations. One method for evaluating the effectiveness of a theory or intervention model is to examine how it has been applied with different client populations (e.g., children, adolescents, adults, older adults) and in addressing specific social or behavioral problems.
For this assignment, students will select one social work or human behavior theory studied throughout the MSW program and examine empirical research that evaluates its effectiveness with a specific problem or child welfare population.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
* Cognitive theory in the treatment of depression
* Behavioral theory in the treatment of school phobia
* Ego psychology in the treatment of marital dysfunction
* Self-psychology in the treatment of individuals with borderline personality disorder

Purpose of the Assignment
This paper allows students to demonstrate their ability to:
* Distinguish, appraise, and integrate multiple sources of knowledge
* Critically evaluate research-based evidence and practice wisdom
* Apply Human Behavior theories to guide assessment and intervention
* Examine theory through the lens of evidence-based practice (EBP)
Students are encouraged to re-familiarize themselves with theories learned in Human Behavior and the Social Environment and Psychopathology courses, such as:
* Cognitive Behavioral Theory
* Brief Solution-Focused Theory
* Attachment Theory
* Ego Psychology
* Racial Identity Theory
* Trauma-Informed Theories

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Assignment Requirements
This assignment does not require a comprehensive review of all studies conducted on a given theory. Instead, students are expected to:
* Locate several peer-reviewed empirical studies
* Summarize each study’s purpose, methodology, sample, and findings
* Evaluate the strengths and limitations of the research
* Make critical evaluative comments regarding the theory’s effectiveness based on the literature
Students may find that there is limited or inconclusive evidence supporting the effectiveness of the selected theory. This is acceptable, provided conclusions are supported by the literature.
Students should consult literature beyond social work, including:
* Psychology
* Counseling
* Psychiatry
Recommended databases include:
* PsycINFO
* MEDLINE
* Social Work Abstracts

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Integration
Because evidence-based practice requires the integration of:
1. Best available research evidence
2. Clinical expertise
3. Client values and circumstances
Students must include a discussion of how these EBP components align or conflict with the empirical studies reviewed.

Paper Specifications
* Length: 6–8 pages (excluding title page, references, and appendices)
* Formatting:
* Typed, double-spaced
* Times New Roman, 12-point font
* One-inch margins
* APA 7th Edition style required
* Include a cover page and reference list

Citation Requirements
* A minimum of six (6) peer-reviewed scholarly sources outside of course materials
* All required course readings and materials must also be incorporated
* Proper APA in-text citations and references are required

Evaluation Criteria
Papers will be evaluated based on:
* Depth and accuracy of literature review
* Critical analysis of theory effectiveness
* Integration of evidence-based practice principles
* Application to social work assessment and intervention
* Organization, clarity, and academic writing quality
* Correct use of APA style

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