Applied Social Research

Praise for earlier editions:


I have been using this textbook as a required reading for my research class since 2004 because I found the text’s coverage of research concepts to be in-depth, and easy to read without the technicalities.


—Ziblim Abukari, PhD, MSW, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Westfield State University





Applied Social Research. . . is thorough, well organized, and clear, making it highly appreciated by my students.


—Barry Loneck, PhD, School of Social Welfare, SUNY Albany


Discover the practical side of research in human services with this easy-to-follow classic


Designed for students and professionals in social work, public administration, nursing, criminal justice, and other human services fields, this text breaks down complex concepts into accessible, real-world applications. Follow along with easy-to-read language and engaging examples to uncover nonintimidating, practical tools for everyday problem-solving. Several new features, such as recorded practitioner interviews and Technology in Research boxes, clarify and reinforce the value of applied social research and innovative tools real professionals use in their work.


This textbook takes readers on a journey through the entire research process, from identifying problems to collecting and analyzing data, and finally, to effectively communicating your findings. Each chapter closes with critical thinking and self-assessment questions to help evaluate students’ understanding of the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS), promoting in-depth learning. Instructors will also welcome a wide array of instructor resources, including a new Instructor Manual, Sample Syllabi, Test Bank, and chapter PowerPoint presentations. Purchase includes online access via most mobile devices or computers.


New to the Eleventh Edition:





Every chapter opens with an extended vignette highlighting how professionals incorporate research methods into their work.

New Practitioner Profiles provide real-world insights into human services, and podcast segments with recorded interviews are included with every chapter.

Chapters now include Technology in Research and Research in Practice boxes, helping readers understand the research practice and technological innovations.

The new Instructor Manual includes additional discussion questions relating to the podcasts, learning activities to help students evaluate competencies, and more.



Key Features:





Clear explanations of the research process, from problem-solving to data analysis, simplifies learning.

Explore real-life stories via practitioner interviews and vignettes in every chapter.

All chapters close with bulleted main points, key terms for review, and several types of questions for evaluating competencies and self-assessment.

Understand the link between research and improved services and develop logic-based research skills.