 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
|
| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Tony Weismiller, ACSW, Professional Development and Advocacy, National Association of Social Workers, 750 First Street, Washington, DC 20002, 202-336-8327, tweismil@naswdc.org
With funding support from the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has developed a Practice Research Network Program. The project is designed to collect information through practitioner-based surveys that will assist in the development of best practices, inform policy, and improve services to clients.
The research objectives of this project were to develop broad knowledge about the practices of social workers and more specific knowledge about social workers’ involvement with substance abuse treatment and prevention. A cross-sectional survey of NASW members was conducted in October, 2002. A random sample of 2000 was selected from a total population of 100,136. With 78% of sample members responding, the results are considered to be highly representative of NASW’s regular membership.
Members responded to questions that examined a number of variables, including the following: socio-demographic information, educational background and social work experience, practice areas and settings, licensure and other certifications, professional development and training in substance abuse treatment, clients’ socio-demographic data, and practice with clients having substance abuse disorders. Data was collected from social workers in organizational settings and in private practice settings.
Evidence derived from this research suggests that social workers are greatly involved in treating substance abuse disorders. More than 30% of all members’ clients were reported to have either a primary or secondary diagnosis of substance abuse. Among private practitioners who have clients with substance abuse disorders, 44% report treating clients’ mental and emotional needs, as well as their substance abuse disorders.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Mental Health, Substance Abuse
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.
National Association of Social Workers.
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee of NASW