Studying social work practice in context

Caslor, Mike and Munro, Eileen ORCID: 0000-0003-4828-2791 (2025) Studying social work practice in context. In: Sanders, Michael, Westlake, David and Hirneis, Vanessa, (eds.) Experimental Methods and Children's Social Care: The Contribution of Randomised Controlled Trials. Edward Elgar, Cheltenham, UK, 156 - 166. ISBN 9781035327140

Full text not available from this repository.

Abstract

This chapter critically examines the application of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in social work, arguing that their relevance is limited due to the complexity of social systems. It discusses the need for alternative approaches that go beyond the linear causality of RCTs to explore how interventions work, for whom, and under what circumstances. Using the implementation of the Signs of Safety practice model as a case study, the chapter illustrates the importance of understanding causal mechanisms within complex social systems. It introduces the Meaningful Measures framework as a method for evaluating the effectiveness of social work interventions, highlighting the need for a realist approach to understanding the impact of social work practices on children and families.

Item Type:	Book Section
Additional Information:	© The Editors and Contributors Severally 2025
Divisions:	Social Policy
Date Deposited:	11 Nov 2025 12:09
Last Modified:	11 Nov 2025 12:09
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/130107

Actions (login required)

View Item