Digital Commons Network^™

Climbing The Not-For-Profit Leadership Ladder In Australia: Equity, Diversity, And Inclusion, Cheng Yen Loo, Shajimon Peter, Ian Moore, Michael Grove, Loretta Baldassar

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This qualitative study examines equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the leadership roles of not-for-profit organizations (NPOs) where a significant number of social workers engage in professional practice. Two focus groups—one with members of the senior management of NPOs (n = 5) and another with emerging (aspiring and less experienced) leaders of NPOs (n = 6)—were conducted to gather perspectives and opinions on EDI in their organizations’ leadership roles. Four major themes emerged from the findings for promoting EDI, which include a whole of organization commitment, multilevel consideration with recruitment, mentorship, training, and advisory board as an untapped potential. Recommendations …

Nature Of Child Welfare Social Work, Sarah Vail Anders

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Social workers in the field of child welfare ensure the safety and well-being of children. While this career field is rewarding, it results in high levels of stress, burnout, and fatigue for workers. To support the challenging needs of child welfare social workers and to enable them to successfully protect children and support their families, an examination of the nature of child welfare social work was conducted. The purpose of this study was to understand the nature of child welfare social work in North Carolina, which was gained through a qualitative transcendental phenomenological study. Twenty-one child welfare social workers were …

Survivor Skills: Authenticity, Representation And Why I Want To Teach Reality Tv, May Friedman

Dialogue: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Popular Culture and Pedagogy

This paper will consider the pedagogical potential in constructing a class on the phenomenon of reality television by exploring the possibilities and pitfalls of a shared viewing of these “texts” as a site of critical engagement with popular culture. A course on reality TV would require a deep analysis of the topics of representation, authenticity, and audience reactions. The course I would like to teach would also consider the ways that reality TV is simultaneously emblematic of, and contributes to, the foregrounding of neoliberal discourses. This paper addresses some of the pedagogical implications of an analysis of reality TV by …

Co-Creating Experiences Through The Use Of Arts In Social Work Education, Keiron Hatton, Tracey Maegusuku-Hewett, Jo Redcliffe

School of Social Work Faculty Publications

The inclusion of citizens in social work education was initiated over 30 years ago and continues to travel a ‘long and winding road’. Social work education in the UK faces increasing pressure from a range of stakeholders including citizens who use services, regulatory bodies and the media to demonstrate that newly qualified social workers are competent and uphold public trust. While social work education and practice within England and Wales draw on similar traditions in theory and practice, there are important differences in the national and institutional frameworks within which they operate. This article illustrates some of these differences through …

Therapeutic Modalities: A Visual Resource For Clinicians And Students, Karen Magruder

Mavs Open Press Open Educational Resources - Archive

This guide serves as a tool for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of therapeutic approaches, whether you're preparing for licensing exams or refreshing your professional practice. Each section has been thoughtfully curated by Master of Social Work (MSW) students at the University of Texas at Arlington, who have distilled complex concepts into clear, accessible content geared for the visual learner. This resource provides a practical and engaging way to review various therapeutic modalities essential for effective clinical practice.

Up For The Challenge: Advancing Social Justice, Dominique P. Mcmurray

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

MSW Portfolio: A Comprehensive Showcase of Academic Work and Achievements

This paper demonstrates the professional development during the Master of Social Work program at the University of Montana. It illustrates the mastery of 5 elements of integrated practice, 9 competencies outlined by the Council on Social Work Education, and one University of Montana-specific competency.

Three Years Of Advanced Integrative Practice, Tyra Rose Klein

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

MSW Portfolio: Narratives and Appendix

Professional Portfolio: A Social Work Journey Through The 10 Competencies, Tessa Rae Nelson

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

The Professional Portfolio demonstrates Tessa Nelson's work through the 10 competencies of social work. This portfolio emphasizes what the student has learned and how it has impacted their social work practice.

Msw Portfolio, Briar Gaither

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

A look at my personal journey through the MSW program, what I experienced and learned, and what I gained. Features my many papers and projects from the program

Msw Portfolio Paper, Kortni Sims

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio paper integrates personal experiences with academic and professional development. She is reflecting on her progression as a social worker. The paper focuses on food security and social justice, examining the impact of systems theory and conflict theory in her practice. Sims demonstrates her proficiency in the ten social work competencies, highlighting her ability to engage in critical self-reflection and advocate for marginalized communities. The paper concludes with a reflection on her past, present, and future as an advanced integrated social worker, committed to ongoing personal and professional growth.

Msw Portfolio: A Growth Mindset Approach, Katherine D. Bettcher

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

A growth mindset approach to Advanced Integrated Practice in Social Work.

Msw Portfolio, Elizabeth E. Robledo

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

The portfolio I constructed discusses how I have met the ten competencies and five elements of advanced integrated practices of social work practice.

Beliefs And Attitudes Regarding Schizophrenia Among Msw Students: An Exploratory Study, Nicole Dunlap

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Schizophrenia remains one of the most complex and stigmatized mental health conditions, impacting not only societal views but also the attitudes of healthcare professionals, including social workers. This study explores the beliefs and attitudes of Master of Social Work (MSW) students towards schizophrenia, identifying the factors that contribute to these perceptions and their potential impact on future professional practices. Using a mixed-method approach, the study surveyed MSW students from a California State University to assess their knowledge, stigma, and experiences related to schizophrenia. Quantitative data analysis revealed gaps in knowledge and persistent stigma among students, while qualitative responses highlighted the …

From Steps To Strides: My Evolving Journey Into Social Work, Lacresha N. Ffrench

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This paper reflects on my journey, shaped by my heritage as a first-generation Jamaican-American and my experiences in education. The narrative begins with the story of my parents, Desmond and Pauline Ffrench, who immigrated from Jamaica with the hope of providing me with greater opportunities. Their sacrifices and unwavering support have been instrumental in my success. My career in education began in 2019, where I transitioned through various roles, from an educational assistant to the restorative practices coordinator. These experiences, coupled with my deepening commitment to advocating for students, led me to pursue a master's in social work. Encouraged by …

Sw: Library Resources For Practicum Students, Usu Libraries

All E-Learning Resources

Attention: As of 2026 updated versions of this module will no longer be available on Digital Commons. Please contact [email protected] for more information.

Your practicum will include activities that help you develop CSWE Competency 4: "Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice." You may need to research populations, treatments, models, interventions, evidence-based practices, and more. This module brings together tips and resources for doing so in one place.

Sw: Accessing Research After Graduation, Usu Libraries

All E-Learning Resources

Attention: As of 2026 updated versions of this module will no longer be available on Digital Commons. Please contact [email protected] for more information.

As a practicing social worker, you'll "engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice" (CSWE Competency 4). This module contains pages on the following topics:

• What changes after graduation, including how you can still use the USU Libraries
• Free research databases
• Information about Open Access
• Tips for finding free copies of articles
• Other helpful sources, including reports, dissertations/theses, evidence-based practices, data/statistics, and tests/measures

Sw 1010: Finding And Using Research (Library Module), Usu Libraries

All E-Learning Resources

Attention: As of 2026 updated versions of this module will no longer be available on Digital Commons. Please contact [email protected] for more information.

In this module you'll learn:

• What a peer-reviewed source is and why you'll want to use them for your research assignment
• How to avoid paywalls and get full access to peer reviewed sources for free
• How to break your research topic into keywords for database searching
• How to cite your sources using APA citation style

Master Of Social Work Portfolio, Courtney Marie Aadland-Lewis

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

A Sleep Health Education Intervention Improves Sleep Knowledge In Social Work Students, Christine E. Spadola, Danielle Groton, Minjaal Raval, Cassie J. Hilditch, Kerry Littlewood, Philip Baiden, Suzanne Bertisch, Eric S. Zhou

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Introduction: Social workers, the largest group of mental health clinicians in the United States, play a pivotal role in mental health promotion. Despite the importance of sleep for mental health, there is no empirical research on sleep education interventions for social workers. Method: We designed an online sleep health education intervention to equip social work students to promote healthy sleep practices among their clients. An interdisciplinary team of experts devised the 90 min intervention using an empirically supported behavioral change theoretical model (COM-B). The intervention discusses multi-level factors that impact sleep and emphasizes considerations for health disparities in populations commonly …

Around The Center, 1996 March, Advocate Health - Midwest

Historical Documents - Combined

Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, IL: Issue of "Around the Center", an employee newsletter. This issue has staffing and departmental updates, patient letters, and a feature on patient satisfaction surveys.

Understanding Student-Athlete Reintegration: Using Social Work Strengths, Charlotte E. Dean, Jerry F. Reynolds Ii

Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics

The reintegration process that follows a student athlete’s unplanned retirement from sport is common among student-athletes. Upon reintegration there are factors that influence an athlete’s ability to remain on campus. These include positive social supports, personal skills, coping skills, and goal setting. There are also more negative reintegration factors such as isolation and role engulfment, limited social supports, lack of preparation, limited personal living skills and emotional regulation, and negative stereotypes from the general collegiate population. A case study helps illustrate the difficulties that a student-athlete may encounter during the reintegration process and how professionals can assist in a more …

Sexual Violence In Intercollegiate Athletics: A Historical Perspective Of Male Athletic Entitlement, Lorin Mordecai

Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics

Sexual violence within intercollegiate athletics is an understudied area of research in social work. Feminist theorists suggest that sexual violence reinforces male dominance as a result of living in a patriarchal society. Male college athletes participating in commercialized sports develop a sense of entitlement due to public admiration for their heroic athleticism. The college sports culture at large Division I universities sets the stage for sexual aggression and exploitation of women. This article seeks to identify themes of male athletic entitlement that perpetuates violence against women through a feminist perspective. Using a historical qualitative analysis, articles from major newspapers were …

Is There A Need For Social Workers In Intercollegiate Athletics? A Conceptual Study, Raymond Waller, Christina L. L. Martin, Samantha Morgan

Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics

Research regarding eating disorders among intercollegiate female athletes is well-documented. Since eating disorders have been categorized as potentially serious mental illnesses by the American Psychiatric Association (APA, 2013), professionals need to be knowledgeable and involved in the overall care of college athletes. However, those closest to the athlete such as athletic trainers and coaches often lack the knowledge to detect symptoms and/or ability to assist those afflicted with eating disorders. To make a difference, a health care professional, such as a clinically trained social worker, should be considered to assist with the well-being of athletes. This conceptual study explores the …

Jane Addams’ Forgotten Legacy: Recreation And Sport, Jerry F. Reynolds Ii

Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics

The intersection of social work and sport have a rich, yet largely undocumented history. In the early days of the profession, one of its founders, Jane Addams, in addition to many roles, served her community as a defacto athletic director. This commentary provides an historical overview discussing the intersection of social work in sport-based environments and community practice with American immigrants. Highlighted are details concerning populations served, the physical spaces created for sport and recreation, and the program influences generated by Addams. The author’s intent is to provide an impetus to expand the profession of social work in sport-based environments, …

College Athletes And Crime: The Role Of Race, Age, And Peers And The Implications For Social Work Practice In College Sports, Emmett L. Gill Jr.

Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics

Almost every other day there is a news story about a college athletes’ involvement in an alleged crime. Indeed, one Sports Illustrated investigation found that, over an eight-month period in 2010, the number of crimes committed by college athletes averaged one every other day (Benedict, 2010). The current study is a secondary data analysis of a sample of 371 media articles documenting the arrests of college athletes between 2010 and 2015. The current study explores differences in the mean number of crimes committed by college athletes’ according to their classification, the number of perpetrators, and the perpetrators’ race across seven …

Social Workers Working With Intimate Partner Violence Survivors: The Influence Of Trauma Work On The Social Worker’S Intimate Relationships, Claire T. Mccue

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Working therapeutically with trauma survivors, such as survivors of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) carries a risk of vicarious traumatization (VT) for social workers, as well as the potential for vicarious post-traumatic growth (VPTG). This phenomenological study sought to explore and understand how vicarious exposure to trauma affects social workers who treat survivors of IPV and their intimate relationships positively and negatively. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 social workers working directly with survivors of IPV in New York while being involved in their intimate relationships.

Utilizing the constructivist self-development perspective, the study found social workers experienced physical, emotional, …

Addressing Barriers To Research-Informed Practice: A Library And Social Work Collaboration To Empower Future Practitioners, Amanda Dinscore, Debbie Gonzalez

Communications in Information Literacy

Social work education prioritizes the use of research to inform practice. As university students, prospective social workers have a wealth of research available to them as well as librarians to help them find, evaluate, and use that information. However, access to much of this research ends once the student graduates—at a time when it is most needed to inform their professional practice. To address this challenge, a librarian and a social work faculty member worked with one class of students in their final semester of a bachelor’s degree in social work program to promote awareness of information privilege and barriers …

Transforming The Welfare State, One Case At A Time: How Utrecht Makes Customized Social Care Work, Charles F. Sabel, Jonathan Zeitlin, Jan-Kees Helderman

Faculty Scholarship

Advanced welfare states are under pressure to customize services, promptly enough to prevent a cascade of harms. With these goals, the Netherlands in 2015 decentralized social care services to municipalities, and within municipalities to neighborhood teams in continuing contact with clients. The overall results have been disappointing. But the experience of Utrecht, the Netherlands’ fourth-largest city, has been strikingly different. By using hard-to-resolve cases to signal conflicts in rules, obstructive jurisdictional boundaries, and the shortcomings of private service providers, Utrecht is learning to customize and speed delivery of social care through incremental steps. This article explains how Utrecht’s success addresses …

Exploring Social Workers Potential Role In Mitigating Maternal Mortality Through Coordinated Care, Jena Brown-Talib

Honors Theses

Maternal health disparities persist as a significant challenge in Mississippi, particularly for African American women. This thesis explores the intersection of coordinated care models and social work interventions in addressing maternal mortality. Coordinated care involves collaboration among physicians, nurses, practitioners, social workers, community health workers, and other support services, aiming to maximize pregnant patients' overall health outcomes.

Analyzing strategies of social workers within coordinated care models is important for improving maternal health outcomes within this study. A qualitative approach was chosen to delve beyond statistics and illuminate the reality of maternal health disparities and the efforts to resolve them. Data …

"La Experiencia Universitaria"- Asset-Based Community Needs Assessment For Uconn Waterbury’S Hispanic Community, Ilene Garcia

Honors Scholar Theses

An asset-based community needs assessment for the Hispanic community of the University of Connecticut’s Waterbury campus was conducted. The community needs assessment uncovered assets that support students, as well as the need for additional resources to promote success in higher education. Information was gathered from the campus community regarding current documented practices such as informal or formal support to aid Hispanic students in their college experience relating to their wellbeing, academic success, and career development. A town hall meeting for the community of students on campus was conducted to impart the information gathered and gather further feedback from students. The …