What works in helping people and why?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1921/swssr.v16i2.530Keywords:
<i>evidence based practice</i>, <i>common elements</i>, <i>randomized controlled trials</i>Abstract
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the most rigorous test of effectiveness for any intervention. This article considers RCTs as policy projects, and outlines the key elements of effective delivery of interventions within an RCT. It is argued that conceptualizing RCTs as practice delivery projects provides insights of relevance for effective leadership in social work or other helping professions. Three elements of effective RCT delivery are suggested to be crucial: (a) a theory about the nature of the issues being worked with and how people can be helped by professionals; (b) a detailed description of practice that flows from this and (c) skills development and monitoring methods for ensuring practitioners are delivering practice in this way. These are argued to be key components required for effective leadership in social work. Finally, it is suggested that while there is increasing focus on the common elements within specific interventions there has been a neglect of the common features associated with their delivery. Attention to these might help explain the ‘Dodo bird effect’, in which different interventions often prove to be equally effective, and thereby enrich our appreciation of what works, for whom and why.
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Published
2013-05-29
How to Cite
Forrester, D. (2013). What works in helping people and why?. Social Work and Social Sciences Review, 16(2), 88-102. https://doi.org/10.1921/swssr.v16i2.530
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