Rigor and Relevance in Social Work Science

Rigor and relevance are essential features of social work science. However, they are often misperceived as being in opposition to one another. Conducting social work research that is both rigorous and relevant requires changes in traditional perspectives, priorities, and practices. The chapter begins with a discussion of the definition and standards of rigor as practiced by scientists and of relevance as practiced by practitioners and policymakers. It then illustrates differences in priorities assigned to rigor and relevance when deciding the extent to which evidence-based practices should be implemented with fidelity or adapted to meet the needs of specific populations, agencies, and contexts, and suggests solutions for accommodating both priorities. The chapter then examines the challenges that must be addressed in bringing rigor and relevance together and how these challenges can be addressed through accommodation and negotiation.