Supervision Training: What We Know and What We Need to Know

Abstract

In this article, the authors explore supervision training, with special emphasis on the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evaluations of supervision for training social work field instructors and clinical staff in professional practice. The authors present an overview of the current literature and research on approaches to supervision training, including the content, format, and effectiveness of contemporary training models. The authors highlight findings from their recent studies, in which they examined a supervision-training model they designed and implemented, based on the relationship between attachment styles, affects, supervisory working alliance, and student competencies. Finally, the authors examine the implications and suggestions for future supervision training and research.