Related Experiment Videos
Social workers and subbstance-abusing clients: caseload composition and competency self-ratings.
1Alcohol and Drug Institute for Policy, Training, and Research, Boston University School of Social Work, MA 02215, USA. mamodeo@bu.edu
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
|November 30, 2000
Summary
Intensive substance abuse training improved social workers' ability to handle clients with substance use disorders. Trained social workers managed more cases and felt more competent in treatment.
Area of Science:
- Social Work
- Addiction Studies
- Mental Health Services
Background:
- Social workers often exhibit negative responses toward clients with substance use disorders.
- Substance abuse training can enhance social workers' confidence and legitimacy in treating these clients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of intensive substance abuse training on social workers' practice with clients with substance use disorders.
- To compare the caseloads and self-perceived competence of trained versus untrained social workers.
Main Methods:
- A 9-month intensive substance abuse training program was completed by 23 master's level social workers (trainees).
- 22 master's level social workers without the intensive training served as comparisons.
- Caseloads were analyzed for client diagnoses, and self-rated competence in assessment and treatment was measured.
Main Results:
- Trained social workers managed more clients with substance use disorders, including those with co-occurring diagnoses.
- Trained social workers reported higher self-perceived competence in intervening with clients, particularly when substance use disorder was the primary or sole diagnosis.
- No significant differences in background variables were found between the trainee and comparison groups.
Conclusions:
- Intensive substance abuse training positively influences social workers' practice by increasing their caseload of clients with substance use disorders and enhancing their perceived competence.
- Findings suggest that specialized education is crucial for improving social work interventions for individuals with substance use disorders.
- Results are applicable to various human service professionals, highlighting the role of education in shaping attitudes and behaviors toward substance-abusing clients.