Which best describes a fundamental goal of social work research?

A fundamental goal of social work research is to improve outcomes for individuals and communities. This encompasses understanding the needs of different populations, evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, and finding evidence-based practices that yield positive changes in the lives of clients. By focusing on outcomes, social work research seeks to enhance the well-being of individuals and families while also addressing broader social issues that affect communities.

This focus on improvement is rooted in the values of social work, which emphasize social justice, empowerment, and practiced interventions. Research that aims to assess and evaluate programs, policies, and practices enables social workers to make informed decisions, advocate for necessary changes, and ultimately strive to create a better society for those they serve. The emphasis on measurable outcomes ensures that social work is not only theoretically sound but also grounded in real-world applications that lead to tangible benefits for individuals and communities.