Recall the Grand Challenges of Social Work. In the same way that they inspire to tackle systemic issues—in
many ways, the big issues of contemporary society, such as racism, health disparity, and economic justice—
they may also seem daunting. After all, how do you eliminate racism or end homelessness?
You, as a researcher, are unlikely to end homelessness. But you will contribute to the body of knowledge that
may be part of the complex solution to such a complex problem. Your research problem narrows the focus from
the broader social problem to address a critical part of the solution. For example, instead of “ending
homelessness,” you may want to study how providers work in an interprofessional collaborative manner on
developing care plans for homeless women and their children.
In this Discussion, you analyze the differences between a social problem and a research problem.
To Prepare
In the DSW capstone or PhD Social Work dissertation used in previous weeks, identify the problem statement.
Consider how the problem statement connects to or seeks to address a social problem.
Review your Week 2 Discussion and Week 3 Assignment. Refine the research topic you began developing in
Week 2 and evaluate the research you did for Week 3.
POST
**Describe briefly the social problem that underlies your proposed research topic.
Define the problem.
Describe the scope of the problem.
Describe the consequences of the problem if left unattended.
**Discuss the difference between the social problem underlying your research topic and how you would
articulate this as a research problem.
**Describe at least two social work practice implications of the research topic, such as clinical practice, policy,
and/or service delivery.
Proposed Research Topic: Reducing Recidivism of people on probation and parole.