Causality and Causal Inference in Social Work: Quantitative and Qualitative Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Social Work Science
• Causality Studies
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Effective social work practice necessitates aligning solutions with specific problems.
• Understanding the underlying causes and effects is crucial for problem-solving.
• Current social work practice lacks clarity on the role, possibility, and methods of identifying causality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the nature of causality.
• To examine the treatment of causality in social work research and practice.
• To demonstrate the utility of mixed methods in establishing a science of social work.

Main Methods:

• Review of causality concepts.
• Analysis of causality in social work literature and practice.
• Exploration of quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Integration of mixed methods for scientific advancement.

Main Results:

• Causality is fundamental to social work but its application is not well-defined.
• Both quantitative and qualitative methods are vital for investigating causality.
• A "science of social work" can be supported by integrating diverse methodological approaches.

Conclusions:

• Clarifying causality is essential for advancing social work as a science.
• Mixed-methods research offers a robust framework for understanding cause and effect in social work.
• Integrating diverse methodologies will enhance the scientific rigor and effectiveness of social work practice.