Training in Behavioral Social Work: A Pilot Study.

The article examines a pilot study on training in behavioral social work. Trainers who use their knowledge of behavioral principles identify the contingencies-context, behavior and consequences-in the training situation. Consideration must also be given to context outside of the course. Each social work course is different and contingencies must be designed to suit the course demands. The article describes an example of how contingencies have been arranged to teach psychology on a particular social work course. The assignment for the course was threefold. Part A of the assignment was a multiple-choice test. Part B was the written report of a developmental project in which students were required to apply their knowledge of behavioral principles to a case from their placement. In Part C, each student had to present his or her project to the tutorial group of eight student colleagues and their tutor. The study concludes that the importance of teaching behavior principles to social work students cannot be overemphasized. Behavioral social work is based on an ever-increasing body of knowledge and research. Social work trainers can successfully use their knowledge of behavioral principles in course design.