Methods
We conducted two phases of the literature review between 1990 and 2000:
(1) comprehensive search of the Social Work Abstracts bibliographic database
using these keywords – poverty, welfare reform, health care, health services,
race relations, immigration, and racism; (2) exhaustive content analysis
of the empirical studies by methods, data types (e.g., archival, clinical,
government- and private-sponsored databases), topical issues, and observed
findings.
Findings
Preliminary findings show a dismal visibility of social work research
in these highly prominent policy arenas. Despite a growing discourse
and funding in health services research, only 81 publications out of 513
(or 16%) were empirical. Since 1996, 40 empirical studies on the
impact of the Personal and Work Responsibility Act were in social work-related
journals. This level of research commitment is minimal despite the
sheer size, complexity, and impact of this national legislation.
Implications
One important aspect of the social work educational mission is the
preparation of social worker for intervention and advocacy at the macro-policy
level. This research review challenges social work educators and
researchers to infuse more enthusiasm and introduce more advanced research
skills in the academic training and conduct of research. These are
necessary attributes to facilitate meaningful research in these complex
policy areas.