Evidence-Based Practice among Romanian Social Workers: Attitudes, Utilization, and Barriers

Abstract

In this article the authors report on a small survey of Romanian social workers regarding their attitudes toward evidence-based practice (EBP) and thoughts on the factors affecting its implementation in their clinical work. Eighty social workers were asked to complete a pen-and-paper questionnaire on their attitudes toward EBP, the use of research, and perceived barriers on implementation. Social workers have generally positive attitudes toward EBP. Insufficient time surfaced as the greatest barrier to successful implementation. Previous training during academic programs on the EBP foundations was associated with more positive attitudes and beliefs and also with stronger commitment toward implementation. Given the constant pressure that the limited resources pose on the social services, practitioners from the social work field must assure that their clients will have access to the best available programs and interventions. However, as the transfer of research into practice appears more complex than EBP suggests, the authors sought to understand how professionals construct their attitudes, level of commitment, and barriers.