Practitioners’ Views of Evidence-Based Practice in Social Work: A Scoping Review

PURPOSE: The concept of evidence-based practice (EBP) has been under academic discussion for its suitability to social work, but the perspectives of social workers have received relatively little attention. The purpose of this study is to provide updated knowledge of social workers' perspectives on EBP, facilitators and barriers to EBP, and possible differences between social work contexts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a scoping review using the JBI methodology and identified 54 relevant peer-reviewed studies published after 2013. RESULTS: Perceptions and attitudes toward evidence-based practice were positive. Still, the conception appeared unclear and was confused with other related concepts The main barrier to implementing evidence-based practice was lack of time, and the main facilitators were staff skills and leadership. Only a few studies reported differences between social work contexts in terms of perceptions, attitudes, experiences, facilitators, or barriers related to EBP. DISCUSSION: Compared to previous research, there has been no change in social workers' understanding of EBP. At times, the discussion related to EBP within the discipline has been critical. However, according to our results, social workers did not share this opinion. The use of research evidence as part of evidence-based practice remains limited in social work, and social workers feel that research does not address their needs. CONCLUSION: Because social workers perceive that research evidence does not meet their needs, it is essential to consider how research dissemination can be improved to increase the perceived usefulness of research. Adopting a more pragmatic research approach could help legitimize academic social work and strengthen the professional status of social work.