A Guide to Evidence-Based Group Work

by Mark J. Macgowan

Overview

This is the first textbook that illustrates, step by step, how to practice evidence-based group work. As group workers are increasingly being held accountable to evaluate, monitor, and improve their practice, there are scant resources available that apply specifically to their practice. General books on evidence-based practice lack the rich material on group work organized for the first time in this one volume. Designed specifically as a supplement for undergraduate and graduate group work courses, the text is organized around the process and philosophy of evidence-based practice: formulating appropriate practice questions; searching for evidence; critically reviewing available evidence; applying the evidence with judgment, skill, and concern for the group members; and evaluating the outcomes achieved. The evidence-based group work framework teaches students how to skillfully apply best practices through practical learning activities, case examples, research designs, step-by-step guidelines and checklists, assessment tips, and detailed instructions for formulating questions and evaluating answers. It will be equally valuable as a handy reference for professionals eager to hone their practice skills.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780190293086
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	02/12/2008
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	3 MB

Table of Contents

Part I Foundation Chapter 1 Introduction to Evidence-Based Group Work 3 Part II Stages of Evidence-Based Group Work Chapter 2 Formulate an Answerable Practice Question 21 Chapter 3 Search for Best Available Evidence 31 Chapter 4 Undertake a Critical Review of the Evidence: Evaluate Its Rigor, Impact, and Applicability 78 Chapter 5 Apply the Evidence and Evaluate the Achievement of Desired Outcomes 168 Part III Dissemination of Evidence-Based Group Work Chapter 6 Advancing Evidence-Based Group Work in Research, Clinical Practice, and Education 187 Appendix List of Abbreviations 203 Notes 205 References 211 Index 239

Editorial Reviews

"As a whole, the text is exemplary in that it builds on a thoughtful approach to EBP, a solid knowledge of relevant research, and careful attention to how these factors can be used to improve practice... Overall, this book is well-organized, provides excellent examples and technical instructions, and respects the values of the practice setting as well as the barriers that practitioners often face in the realities of practice... an excellent text for graduate social work programs, not only for the teaching of group work but for instruction related to the process of EBP in all settings."—Research on Social Work Practice

"This book is a very important addition to the professional literature of group work and should be part of every group work curriculum...The profession's code of ethics requires that practice should be informed by research. This book makes a major contribution to how this should happen in group work."—Social Work with Groups

"This would be an excellent textbook for an undergraduate- or graduate-level academic course on group therapy. Psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and other counselors would perhaps be wise to become familiar with this work...This guide provides essential material and extensive resources. I highly recommend this book to you." —Journal of Groups in Addiction & Recovery

From the Publisher