What do social workers use to inform their research?

Social workers utilize practice experience as a foundation for their research because it allows them to draw from real-world situations they have encountered in their profession. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights and practical knowledge that contribute to a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. By incorporating these experiences, social workers can develop more relevant research questions and design studies that address the actual needs of the populations they serve.

In contrast, emotions may influence a social worker's perspective but are not a reliable basis for systematic research. Doctrines might provide a theoretical framework, but without empirical grounding from practice, they can lack practical relevance. Similarly, presumptions can lead to biased interpretations and assumptions that may not reflect reality, thus undermining the validity of the research findings. Focusing on practice experience ensures that the research is grounded in tangible realities and contributes to evidence-based practice in social work.