Diane Haslett

Bio: Diane Haslett is an academic researcher. The author has contributed to research in topics: Empirical research & Positivism. The author has an hindex of 1, co-authored 1 publications receiving 68 citations.

Critical Action Research: A Model of Social Work Knowing

Abstract: In response to the important philosophical and methodological questions being asked in social work, this article presents a model for social work knowing that is founded on the tenets of critical theory synthesized with principles and practices from action research. The model provides the essential empirical support for social work interventions and outcomes and is consistent with the social work code of ethics and the social work profession's commitment to elimination of oppression. An example of the process, the Maine Adolescent Project, is used to illustrate the implementation of the model. Key words: participatory inquiry; research model As a profession committed to the empowerment of oppressed groups, social work has struggled with the role of scientific inquiry and the "correct" epistemology for social work (Anastas & MacDonald, 1994; DePoy & Gitlin, 1998; Reamer, 1993). However, during the past several decades, in the increasingly competitive human services climate, social workers have come to the realization that they must use research to examine the need for as well as to support the outcomes of practice. Although the role of research has been defined as an essential professional survival activity, the debate over what inquiry models best serve social workers and their mission continues. On one end of the epistemology debate is the view that quantitative and positivist approaches to inquiry are the most efficacious way to support practice need and outcome (Fischer, 1981). These approaches view research as a professional activity that is conceptualized, conducted, and used by professionals (Whyte, 1995). However, in addition and sometimes contrary to that perspective is the notion that social workers need to consider qualitative, naturalistic inquiry to capture the uniqueness, diversity, and complexity of the issues and client populations from their own perspective (Tutty, Rothery, & Grinnell, 1996). Moreover, the notion of knowledge as power adds another important dimension to the debate over epistemology by raising questions about who should generate, have access to, and determine the use of knowledge in the social work field (Finn, 1994; Kondrat, 1994; Kondrat & Julia, 1997; Whyte, 1995). In response to the important philosophical and methodological questions being asked in social work, this article presents a model for social work knowing founded on the tenets of critical theory synthesized with principles and practices from action research. We suggest that this model not only provides the essential empirical support for social work interventions and outcomes but also is consistent with the social work code of ethics and commitment to elimination of oppression. Theoretical and Philosophical Background As stated by Finn (1994), a major challenge facing social work is the "call for change-oriented, value-based models of knowledge development that address people, power and praxis" (p. 25). Thus, the qualitative-quantitative debate deservedly becomes obfuscated by the critical need to develop purposive models of knowing to serve oppressed populations by moving beyond the perpetuation of dominance and privilege by and for resource-rich groups. (Ervin, 1996; Finn). Critical theory and action research provide sound philosophical and methodological grounding for the development of a model to meet the need identified by Finn. Critical Theory As implied by the name, critical theory is not a research method but a worldview that suggests both an epistemology and a purpose for conducting research. Whether critical theory is a philosophical, political, or sociological school of thought has been debated in the contemporary literature. In essence, critical theory is a response to post-Enlightenment philosophies, positivism in particular, which "deconstructs" the notion of a unitary truth that can be known by one way or method. That is to say, critical theory is a movement that lives in the world of philosophy. …

Evaluating Qualitative Research for Social Work Practitioners

Abstract: The field of social work expects practitioners remain well informed regarding research advances in their respective areas. Research studies conducted through the lens of qualitative inquiry provide important contributions to the social work knowledge base. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide practitioners some orientation regarding qualitative research methods and to highlight potential strategies researchers may use to enhance the trustworthiness and quality of their research. Specifically, the concept of trustworthiness is defined in the context of qualitative inquiry and questions social work practitioners can ask when evaluating the quality and applicability of a qualitative research study are provided.

The Relationship Between Culture, Gender, Structural Factors, Abuse, Trauma, and HIV/AIDS for Latinas

Abstract: The study, in which the author aim to understand the contextual risks of HIV-positive serostatus and intimate partner violence (IPV) of 32 Latina women, involved focus groups, in-depth face-to-face narratives, and community meetings. The data emerged into four themes: histories of trauma, living with HIV, vulnerability, and la suerte (luck). In addition to the themes, women in this study talked about how structural and cultural factors such as machismo, marianismo, and fatalism are implicated in the risk for HIV and IPV. Women in the study reconceptualized the notion of IPV to denote a form of situational abuse, such as threats of deportation, that is exacerbated by their HIV status.

Parental Perspectives of Communication about Sexuality in Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract: To explore the content of communication about sexuality between parents and children with autism spectrum disorders, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 parents of children ages 6–13. Content analysis and ethnographic summary were used to interpret the data. Findings suggest that parent’s perceptions of a child’s behaviors and comprehension are associated with the likelihood that communication occurs. However, parents recognize the risks their children experience, with the greatest fears being sexual victimization and misperceptions related to the intent of their child’s behaviors. This study provides information on the nature of communication about sexuality in families of children with autism spectrum disorders and can help tailor interventions aimed at assisting parents to communicate sexuality information effectively.

Ethics and power in community-campus partnerships for research:

Abstract: The past 20 years have seen a strong emergence of participatory approaches in social research. Such efforts typically include the researched in defining the questions, in data collection and analysis, and in interpreting and taking action based on the research findings. The objective is co-generating knowledge and, potentially, sharing decision-making based on that knowledge. This movement toward participatory research brings new sets of social relations for research and, as such, presents a new set of ethical challenges. The current framework for understanding the ethical issues involved in research is predicated on post-positivist epistemological assumptions of a distanced objectivist research stance, and thus is ill-suited for examining the ethics of participatory research. This article shall address this gap, outlining the potential ethical implications and presenting a framework for considering the ethical questions involved in participatory research partnerships.

Social work as a moral and political practice

Abstract: EnglishIn their efforts to promote the Global Standards for the Education and Training of the Social Work Profession, the authors discovered the withering of the moral and political bases of social work practice in the West. The revitalization of the roots of social work is important to the promotion of social justice.FrenchDans leurs efforts pour promouvoir les Standards Mondiaux pour l’Enseignement et la Formation aux Professions Sociales, les auteurs decouvrent le declin des bases morales et politiques de la pratique du travail social en occident. La revitalisation des racines du travail social est importante pour la promotion de la justice sociale.SpanishEn su esfuerzo para promover los Estandares Globales para la Educacion y el Entrenamiento en la Profesion del Trabajo Social, los autores descubrieron el marchitar de las bases politicas y morales de la practica del trabajo social en occidente. La revitalizacion de las raices del trabajo social es importante para la promocion de la justicia social.