Training in Behavioral Social Work: A Pilot Study

Social work practice has recently become much criticized. Misapplication of procedures and ill-defined theoretical approaches have led to a view of social work as a semiprofession. A thorough theoretical and procedural revision is necessary. In this article, we will argue that a natural science approach to human behavior, such as that offered by behavior analysis, constitutes a fundamental basis for effective and accountable social work practice. A program that was designed as part of a postgraduate social work course is introduced and evaluated. The aim of this program was to establish students' professional social work competence using well-established knowledge of the principles of behavior. Contingency arrangements for students included tests, project work, and oral presentations. Program design and student progress are reported. A number of examples of student projects are given.