LMSW Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards

A social worker wants to explore the lived experiences of refugees adjusting to a new country. Which research design is MOST appropriate?

Answer: Phenomenological qualitative study

Phenomenological qualitative designs are ideal for exploring subjective lived experiences in depth.

Which statistical measure describes the spread of scores around the mean?

Answer: Standard deviation

Standard deviation quantifies how much individual scores vary from the mean of a dataset.

A researcher reports a p-value of 0.03 with α set at 0.05. What is the correct interpretation?

Answer: Reject the null hypothesis

When p < α, the result is statistically significant and the null hypothesis is rejected.

Which sampling method gives every member of the population an equal chance of selection?

Answer: Simple random sampling

Simple random sampling ensures each population member has an equal and independent probability of being selected.

An LMSW is evaluating a group intervention using a pre-test/post-test design without a control group. The BIGGEST threat to internal validity is:

Answer: History

History refers to external events occurring between pre- and post-test that could explain changes independent of the intervention.

In evidence-based practice, after identifying the clinical question, what is the NEXT step?

Answer: Search for the best available evidence

The EBP process follows: formulate question → search evidence → critically appraise → apply → evaluate.

Which level of measurement allows for meaningful calculation of a mean?

Answer: Interval

Interval-level data have equal intervals between values, making arithmetic operations like calculating a mean meaningful.