Related Experiment Videos
Clinical social work practice in the U.S. Army: an update
L Applewhite1, K BrintzenhofeSzoc, E R Hamlin
1Student Detachment, AMEDD Center and School, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA.
Military Medicine
|June 1, 1995
Summary
This study surveyed U.S. Army social workers on their clinical practices. Findings reveal 10 theoretical/methodological categories and a negative correlation between experience and client diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Social Work
- Military Psychology
- Clinical Practice
Background:
- Clinical social work is integral to military healthcare.
- Understanding current Army social work practices is essential for effective service delivery.
- Previous research has not comprehensively detailed contemporary Army social work.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate contemporary clinical social work practices within the U.S. Army.
- To identify theoretical and methodological approaches used by Army social workers.
- To explore the relationship between practitioner experience and client populations served.
Main Methods:
- A mail survey was distributed to active-duty and civilian social workers in the U.S. Army.
- Data were collected from 94 active-duty and 77 civilian respondents.
- Factor analysis, Pearson's correlation, and stepwise multiple regression were employed for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Ten distinct theoretical and methodological categories were identified among respondents.
- A moderate negative relationship was observed between years of experience and client diagnostic categories.
- The study presents results of regression analyses linking theories, methods, and client groups.
Conclusions:
- Contemporary Army social work utilizes diverse theoretical and methodological approaches.
- Increased practitioner experience may correlate with shifts in client diagnostic focus.
- The findings inform future planning and resource allocation for military social work services.