School of Social Work

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A Conceptual Exploration: Preparing Social Work Students For Trauma Exposure
(2025) Vanessa L. Jones; Jackson, Sebrena; Brown, Leslie
Social workers engage with and provide services to a multitude of populations in various settings. Many of these systems and settings were created because of or in response to trauma, oppression, poverty, and/or violence resulting in these issues becoming imbedded or intertwined into the foundation or nature of the settings. This results in social workers being exposed to trauma via the people they work with and/or the environment. Master of Social Work (MSW) programs prepare social workers to provide trauma-informed care, but do not prepare them for the trauma that they will be exposed to or potentially experience directly. Over time this can result in the development of compassion fatigue, moral injury or burnout. This writer offers both a framework for examining and understanding the impact of this issue, as well as a proposed training approach for MSW students. The objective of the training approach is to better prepare MSW students for trauma exposure in the workplace with a goal of social workers having a better understanding of how they are likely to be impacted by their work and how to counter the negative impact.
A Systematic Review of Clinical Case Formulation Methods and Pedagogies
(2024) Pearce, Jason; Cheatham, Leah; McKinney, Bob
This systematic review aimed to improve behavioral health clinician training by examining different case formulation methods and pedagogical approaches. The review included case formulation studies utilized by psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and trainees, looking at both the specific methods taught and the pedagogical approaches used. Fifty-one studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing diverse methodologies and geographical locations. The review found no single “best” method for case conceptualization; however, the studies highlighted the experiential learning approaches in training. Significant gaps remain in understanding the direct link between the implementation of specific methods and improved clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify optimal case formulation approaches, develop comprehensive training programs addressing various influencing factors (e.g., experience, theoretical orientation, and uncertainty tolerance), and create robust assessment tools. These findings have implications for improving clinical training, standardizing practice, and, ultimately, enhancing the quality of mental health care.
Addressing the "Digital Divide" and Impact to Educational Equity and Access: A Qualitative Inquiry of Students in Higher Education
(2023) Thorn, Lauren; Jackson, Sebrena; Tuchmayer, Jeremy
In March 2020, much of higher education transitioned to emergency online education as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent shutdown of colleges and universities, with many students being sent home to communities that were not able to support reliable broadband internet service or to environments that lacked the necessary devices and software for their educational studies (Ibacache et al., 2021). Universities were provided with funding to address student emergency needs, including providing additional devices to students and families, utilizing technology to make courses mobile-friendly and to connect students to the internet through hot spots or supplementing the costs of increased internet usage in their homes (Ratledge et al., 2020). This study explores the research question, “As online education and digital access remain an integral part of the higher education experience, what programs can colleges and universities implement to ensure equitable student access to technology and highspeed internet needed for academic success?” Through a review of current literature, relevant questions were identified, and a qualitative research study protocol was established to host focus groups with students who were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to assess their experiences and identify potential services and resources for additional support. Following review and coding of the focus group transcripts, key themes emerged around access to digital course codes and texts, technological efficacy and skills needed to engage in online classes, addressing financial barriers associated with external software and platforms, and integrating training and educationinto existing programs for faculty, students, and staff. The project explores systemic practice implications, legislative and policy impacts, and related theoretical framework that will guide future research in this area.
Aging in a confined place: an exploration of elder inmate health and healthcare
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Jennings, Lisa Kitchens; Roff, Lucinda L.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
This qualitative case study investigates and analyzes the health and healthcare experience of elderly offenders. Four substantive areas which were examined included: 1) To explore how changes in an inmate's personal health and functional status influenced the healthcare process, 2) To explore how family relationship awareness and involvement affected prisoner health and healthcare, 3) To explore the influence of policy on prisoner health and healthcare and, 4) To explore the influence of the larger societal discourse on prisoner health and healthcare. The study was conducted within three theoretical frameworks: standpoint theory, Cantor's (2000) model of social care of the elderly, and the social construction of the aging inmate. Face-to-face and phone interviews were conducted with sixteen participants. Four of the participants were elder inmates between the ages of 50 and 90 years of age, and had served time in the state of Alabama's only correctional facility designed for the aged and infirm male prisoner. The additional twelve collateral participants were correctional staff, medical personnel, family members, and church and community volunteers. This research contributes to the literature on elderly offenders, and the understanding of experiencing health changes and healthcare in a correctional institution. The study concludes with several recommendations intended to better prepare prisons, healthcare providers and communities for the growing elderly inmate population.
All I was Thinking About was Shattered: Women's Experiences Transitioning Out of Anti-Trafficking Shelters During the COVID-19 Lockdown in Uganda
(Sage, 2023) Namy, Sophie; Namakula, Sylvia; Nabachwa, Agnes Grace; Ollerhead, Madeleine; Tsai, Laura Cordisco; Kemitare, Jean; Bolton, Kelly; Nkwanzi, Violet; Carlson, Catherine; Harvard University; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
Human trafficking is an egregious violation of fundamental human rights and a global challenge. The long-term harms to survivors' physical, psychological and social wellbeing are profound and well documented, and yet there are few studies exploring how to best promote resilience and holistic healing. This is especially true within shelter programs (where the majority of anti-trafficking services are provided) and during the transition out of residential shelter care, which is often a sensitive and challenging process. The current study begins to address this gap by centering the lived experiences of six women residing in a trafficking-specific shelter in Uganda as they unexpectedly transitioned back to their home communities due to the COVID-19 lockdown. We explore this pivotal moment in participants' post-trafficking journey, focusing on how these women described and interpreted their rapidly changing life circumstances-including leaving the shelter, adjusting back to the community setting, and simultaneously navigating the uncertainties of a global pandemic. Four core themes emerged from the analysis: economic insecurities as a cross-cutting hardship; intensification of emotional and physical symptoms; social disruptions; and sources of hope and resilience. By centering their personal stories of struggle and strength, we hope to elevate survivors' own accounts and draw on their insights to identify actionable considerations for future programming.
An Evaluation of a Conflict Resolution Curriculum Implemented Among Interprofessional Health Faculty in Higher Education
(2025) Arndt, Robin G.; Jackson, M. Sebrena; Seabury, S. Aukahi Austin
Interprofessional education (IPE) prepares healthcare professionals to work collaboratively in team-based environments. While IPE includes competencies for conflict resolution, it is often under-addressed in faculty development and training. This project aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a targeted educational intervention focused on conflict resolution. A two-hour online workshop based on the TeamSTEPPS® Mutual Support module was delivered to faculty and affiliates from Hawaii's Interprofessional Education programs. A pre-post design was used to measure outcomes. Tools included the TeamSTEPPS® Learning Benchmarks, the Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire (T-TAQ), and the Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS). Data were analyzed using SPSS to assess satisfaction and changes in knowledge and attitudes. Fourteen participants completed the pre-survey, and thirteen completed the post-survey. Participants showed statistically significant improvement across all 20 ICCAS items. One item on the T-TAQ and one conflict-related question on the TeamSTEPPS® Learning Benchmarks showed significant gains. Participants reported high satisfaction, found the material relevant, and noted increased confidence in managing interprofessional conflict. The findings suggest brief, targeted training can improve faculty confidence and competence in managing conflict. This has implications for faculty development, IPE curriculum design, and organizational practices. Limitations include a small sample size, reliance on self-report, and limited generalizability. Future research should explore long-term outcomes and broader application across health disciplines.
Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 and Race-Based Trauma on the Mental Health of Black Social Work Providers
Foster, Carmen Reese; Davis, Curtis; Held, Mary; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
The aim of this study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 and race-based trauma on the mental health of Black social workers and to identify support systems. An explanatory sequential design was used to measure mental health, COVID-19, quality of life, race-based trauma, and support systems. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine which dependent variables would significantly correlate with COVID-19 and race-based trauma. Depression, anxiety, and stress were significant. Several themes emerged from the qualitative interviews, with 85% reporting a lack of support from their White colleagues. Identified sources of support were therapy and positive relationships.
Assessment of Integration of Religion and Spirituality in Social Work Field Education among Students and Field Instructors
Creech, Sean C.; Ruggiano, Nicole; Curington, Allison; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
In recent years, there has been an increase in the interest to integrate spiritual and religious perspectives into social work practice. Understanding religion and spirituality in practice is developed through and supported by exposure in social work education programs and field education. As more social work programs integrate religion and spirituality into practice, a reliable instrument to measure student perceptions and attitudes about its integration into practice is needed. The purpose of this study was to determine if the Religious and Spirituality Integrated Practice Assessment Scale (RSIPAS) was a reliable instrument for use with social work field students. This study also explored the extent to which educational courses and training have been provided to those affiliated with social work programs. Furthermore, the study compared the views of self-efficacy, attitudes, perceived feasibility, and behaviors with integration into practice between social work field instructors and field students and again between MSW and BSW field students. The research was collected utilizing a correlational research design using a quantitative cross-sectional survey. Participants included students in their field placements at accredited social work programs and field instructors affiliated with those programs. The study found that the RSIPAS was a reliable instrument to assess student familiarity with and views about integrating religious and spiritual needs into practice. The study also revealed significant correlations between education and the impact on the agreement to items in the instrument. Lastly, there were statistically significant differences between the responses of social work field students and social work field instructors regarding their views around self-efficacy and between MSW and BSW students regarding the frequency of engaging in practice behaviors. The results of this study support opportunities to increase course content around religion and spirituality and that those who receive education around the content can better integrate religion and spirituality into social work practice.
Assessment of Integration of Religion and Spirituality in Social Work Field Education Among Students and Field Instructors
Creech, Sean C.; Ruggiano, Nicole; Curington, Allison; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
In recent years, there has been an increase in the interest to integrate spiritual and religious perspectives into social work practice. Understanding religion and spirituality in practice is developed through and supported by exposure in social work education programs and field education. As more social work programs integrate religion and spirituality into practice, a reliable instrument to measure student perceptions and attitudes about its integration into practice is needed. The purpose of this study was to determine if the Religious and Spirituality Integrated Practice Assessment Scale (RSIPAS) was a reliable instrument for use with social work field students. This study also explored the extent to which educational courses and training have been provided to those affiliated with social work programs. Furthermore, the study compared the views of self-efficacy, attitudes, perceived feasibility, and behaviors with integration into practice between social work field instructors and field students and again between MSW and BSW field students. The research was collected utilizing a correlational research design using a quantitative cross-sectional survey. Participants included students in their field placements at accredited social work programs and field instructors affiliated with those programs. The study found that the RSIPAS was a reliable instrument to assess student familiarity with and views about integrating religious and spiritual needs into practice. The study also revealed significant correlations between education and the impact on the agreement to items in the instrument. Lastly, there were statistically significant differences between the responses of social work field students and social work field instructors regarding their views around self-efficacy and between MSW and BSW students regarding the frequency of engaging in practice behaviors. The results of this study support opportunities to increase course content around religion and spirituality and that those who receive education around the content can better integrate religion and spirituality into social work practice.
Attitudes and opinions toward stress-related support services among police in a southern state: a qualitative study
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2020) Barber, Brad W.; Albright, David L.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
Police work is considered one of the most stressful occupations in the world and the high levels of stress associated with police work place officers at high risk for developing mental and physical health problems. Police officers also pose a threat to themselves, their families, and the general public when work-related stress is unresolved; high levels of stress among police can manifest into self-destructive, violent, and deviant behavior. Although stress management interventions have been available to police since the 1940s, the health and behavioral problems associated with unresolved stress have not shown any signs of improvement. The purpose of this study was to explore and identify (1) how police officers appraise stress-related support services, (2) suggestions they have regarding ways to improve these services, and (3) recommendations for new support services that would help to reduce and better manage work related stress. A pragmatic qualitative research approach was used to guide this study. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 20 patrol officers with at least two years of police experience. Findings showed that overall attitudes toward support services were positive, but two external factors were identified as major barriers to using services. Distrust toward confidentiality protections with intervention workers resulted in a perceived threat of being deemed unfit for duty by supervisors for using a support service. Similarly, a fear of appearing weak to other officers keeps officers from seeking needed services. However, participants recommended several feasible implications for lowering these barriers and to increasing officers’ willingness to using support services if needed. Most participants endorsed mandatory counseling after a critical incident because a standardized policy would reduce the fear of looking weak and the threat of being deemed unfit for duty. Suggestions for increasing trust in confidentiality protections included allowing police to meet counselors at private and discrete locations, giving officers the option of choosing their own counselor rather than assigning them one, and requiring external intervention workers to conduct “ride alongs” to build rapport with officers and better understand the unique stress associated with police work.
Attitudinal professionalism among social work license holders in China
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2016) Tang, Ning; Smith, Brenda D.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
The social work profession has become a crucial political tool in China’s welfare and social service delivery system. In the Mid- to Long-term Planning of Building Social Work Professional Community (2011-2020), the state calls for 1,450,000 professional social workers by 2020. The social work licensure exam has become the most convenient path to create a large amount of professional social workers within a short period of time. Yet little is known about the characteristics and the professionalism of the social work license holders. This study aimed to examine the relationships between formal education, professionalism, and bureaucracy level experienced by the social work license holders from Shunde, Guangdong. The population of social work license holders in Shunde was invited to participate in an online survey. A total of 256 social workers completed the survey, representing sixteen percent of the population. Regression models were conducted to assess associations with level of professionalism, educational background, and experiences with organizational bureaucracy. The findings of this study demonstrated that the majority of social work license holders had not received social work formal education; formal education failed to predict greater professionalism; some aspects of bureaucracy were positively associated with some aspects of professionalism; and the professional socialization occurring in the field may be more effective than current formal social work education in cultivating practitioners’ attitudinal professionalism. Four suggestions were drawn from this study to promote social work professionalism: encourage social work educators and researchers to be more active in the field, create more social work positions/titles in the traditional social service delivery system, strengthen the functions of professional associations, and enforce continuing education among social work license holders. These suggestions may also be useful for other countries that lack educational resources to develop social work profession.
Barriers and incentives to mammography screening among African American and Caucasian women in the Mississippi Delta
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2014) Collins, Shani Kehinde; Smith, Brenda D.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
This study examined barriers and incentives to mammography screening among African American and Caucasian women in the Mississippi Delta. This study sought to identify the most salient barriers and incentives to mammography screening; determine if those barriers and incentives differed by race; and determine if barriers and incentives influenced mammography screening behavior. A cross-sectional survey design was used. The Breast Cancer Screening Measure was administered to 175 African American and Caucasian participants at eight different churches in Leflore County, and at the Mississippi State Capitol in Jackson, Mississippi. The survey measured barriers and incentives to mammography screening as well as breast cancer screening behavior. The study found that fear of breast cancer, perceived benefits of mammograms, and health motivation were the most salient barriers and incentives. It was also determined that African American women were more fearful of breast cancer and more motivated to care for their health when compared to Caucasian women. Finally, there were no differences in screening behavior by race; however, women who were more fearful of breast cancer were likelier to be overdue for a mammogram, and women who were motivated to care for their health more likely to be current. This study's findings have important implications related to the continued need to address psychological barriers to breast cancer screening among "high-risk" women in the Mississippi Delta. Ultimately, the findings may be instrumental in helping future practitioners address fear of breast cancer as a barrier to mammography screening among African American and Caucasian women in rural areas.
Behavioral Health Needs and Barriers to Care Among Soldiers Who Report Past Year Sexual Harassment and/or Sexual Assault
(2023) Kunhavijit, Michael; Shah, Avani; Ruggiano, Nicole
Background: Sexual harassment and sexual assault (SH/SA) continue to be a problem in the military despite extensive efforts to mitigate incidents. The mental health needs of military SH/SA survivors are often unmet due to stigma, military cultural values related to self-reliance, and logistical barriers. This secondary analysis assessed data related to the prevalence of past-year SH/SA across demographics, identified the mental health needs among those who experienced it, and ascertained the perceived barriers to treatment among members of an Army brigade combat team (BCT).Methods: For this analysis, any affirmative response to either 1) past-year sexual harassment, and/or 2) past-year sexual assault was combined to create a past-year SH/SA indicator variable. Mental health outcomes included major depression, generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal ideation, alcohol use, and insomnia. Perceived barriers to treatment outcomes included stigma, self-reliance, and logistical barriers. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and logistical regression were used to report findings.Results: SH/SA incidents were concentrated among young (17-24) junior enlisted (E1-E4) female soldiers; SH/SA survivors reported psychological problems at a higher rate compared to non-victims (73% vs. 31%); and SH/SA survivors reported higher occurrences of stigma and barriers to care compared to non-victims.Conclusion:The results of this study were mixed. The SH/SA survivors that indicated psychological concerns reported higher rates of stigma and barriers to care but sought mental health care at higher rates than non-victims that indicated psychological concerns. The gap between SH/SA victimization and BH utilization needs improving as unmet BH needs can lead to a myriad of issues. Changing perspectives on self-reliance as it relates to coping with mental health problems is a way to address this gap. Leaders must emphasize that mental health care is a form of self-reliance, while military mental health professionals must implement effective self-care initiatives and promote available resources to aid soldiers in overcoming their mental health problems.
Bereavement services for Hispanics: an exploratory study of Florida hospices
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2009) Arriaza, Pablo; Kosberg, Jordan I.; Csikai, Ellen L.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
Hispanics are the fastest growing minority group in the United Sates, numbering over 42 million and making up 15% of the total population. Hispanics are a diverse, intricate, and heterogeneous group that experiences various disparities in health care, including care at the end of life. One specific area, bereavement care, has received minimal attention in the literature, and previous national bereavement studies have not discussed ethnic variations related to the provision of bereavement services. This exploratory study, conducted in Florida, was undertaken to address existing policy, research, and practice gaps regarding bereavement services available to Hispanics. An on-line survey was developed to explore five research questions that centered on bereavement services offered by hospice agencies, bereavement coordinators' perceptions about the needs of Hispanics, and the strengths and challenges of hospice agencies when offering bereavement services to Hispanics. The sample consisted of all hospice bereavement coordinators in Florida. Initial contact was made by telephone to solicit participation and confirm contact information. An electronic survey was responded to by 73% (n = 30) of the total state sample. Results of this study reveal language and cultural barriers as major challenges in communicating with Hispanics and in offering and delivering bereavement services. Embedded within these challenges were reports by bereavement coordinators of the lack of Spanish-speaking personnel available to provide bereavement services. Additionally, results disclose that the number of Hispanics participating in bereavement services was much lower than the estimated number of potential Hispanic families and individuals eligible to participate in these services. Referrals to religious and spiritual support systems were considered an important referral source for Hispanics in bereavement agencies. Implications for social workers include the need to increase access to and the effectiveness of bereavement services for Hispanics through efforts in research, policy, and practice. Social work practitioners and researchers need to focus on the creation of instruments and processes for tracking bereavement services, and establishing practice standards for bereavement services. Needed policy efforts include advocating for more attention to the bereavement needs of Hispanics in state and national venues in addition to securing funds for creating grass-roots interventions.
Breast cancer literacy and health beliefs related to breast cancer screening among American Indian women
(Routledge, 2018) Roh, Soonhee; Burnette, Catherine E.; Lee, Yeon-Shim; Jun, Jung Sim; Lee, Hee Yun; Lee, Kyoung Hag; University of South Dakota; Tulane University; San Francisco State University; Wichita State University; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
The purpose of this article is to examine the health beliefs and literacy about breast cancer and their relationship with breast cancer screening among American Indian (AI) women. Using the Health Belief Model (HBM) and hierarchical logistic regression with data from a sample of 286 AI female adults residing in the Northern Plains, we found that greater awareness of breast cancer screening was linked to breast cancer screening practices. However, perceived barriers, one of the HBM constructs, prevented such screening practices. This study suggested that culturally relevant HBM factors should be targeted when developing culturally sensitive breast cancer prevention efforts.
Breast cancer risk factors in a sexual minority population: an examination of the 2014 and 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2017) Carter, Vicky L.; Simon, Cassandra E.; Pryce, Josephine G.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
This study is a secondary data analysis of the 2014 and 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Using a sample of 3,082 respondents, in three racial categories- White, African American, and Hispanic, this study examined sexual orientation and breast cancer risk factors. The sample size included 1,544 randomly selected heterosexual and 1,534 self-identified lesbians. The overall aim of this study is to explore behavioral and non-behavioral/demographic breast cancer risk factor differences between heterosexual women and lesbians. Chi-square analysis revealed significant demographic differences between heterosexual women and lesbians in age, educational attainment, employment status, household income, and having health insurance. Race was not found to be significant. Analysis of behavioral factors also indicated higher rates of alcohol consumption and tobacco use, lower mammogram use, and lower fruit intake in the lesbian population compared to heterosexual women. Physical activity, obesity, and diet-vegetable intake were not significantly different between the two populations. Loglinear analysis indicated that the introduction of race when examining these significant demographic non-behavioral and behavioral findings, had little effect on previous chi-square analysis findings. Sexual orientation was found to be the main effect on the findings with the exception of educational attainment and health insurance. Findings from this study may be used to develop comprehensive, appropriate, culturally competent, interventions, in addition to advocating in areas of public policy to address the breast cancer risks of lesbians.
Can a Schoolwide Advisory Program Reduce Discipline Referrals and Boost Feelings of School Connectedness?
(2022) Manning, Conor; McKinney, Robert; Ruggiano, Nicole; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
Introduction/Background: School discipline procedures are harmful to students and programs that reduce the likelihood of suspension are important for students’ wellbeing. School connectedness is a known protective factor for students. This study explores the implementation of a schoolwide advisory program’s impact on discipline referrals and students’ feelings of school connectedness. Methods: Data were collected over the course of an entire school year and results were compared pre- and post-intervention. The intervention took place during the 2nd semester of the school year. School discipline data and survey data (Student Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire [SSWQ]) were compared pre- and post-intervention. Results: Mean out-of-school suspension rates were reduced at statistically significant levels. Mean ISS rates increased. There was not a statistically significant change in mean SSWQ scores. Discussion: This might serve as foundational work that a schoolwide advisory program could use to help reduce rates of out-of-school suspension.
Care transitions in outpatient cancer settings: processes and social work roles
(University of Alabama Libraries, 2016) Broussard, Crystal Scroggins; Csikai, Ellen L.; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
About 1.6 million new cancer diagnoses are expected in 2016 and most individuals will receive treatment in one of 1500 outpatient community cancer centers (ACS, 2016). While many are successfully treated, other individuals will transfer from cancer care to alternative forms of care, including hospice. Positive transitions to new care settings result from good, clear communication between professionals and patients/families. The present study was designed to examine how care transitions are carried out, including team communication (interdisciplinary team and family meetings) about changing goals/plans of care, transition protocols, and follow-up procedures. Also investigated were the specific social work roles and activities that help prepare and support patients and families throughout changes in treatment and care settings, with a particular focus on transitions near the end of life. Distress screening practices were examined along with their impact on social work services. An online quantitative survey constructed for this study was conducted with a national random sample of outpatient oncology social workers drawn from facilities accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) and stratified according to center classification. Of 481 cancer centers contacted, 119 had no social workers on staff. A total of 329 social workers were surveyed; 111 responded for a response rate of 34%. Findings indicated that patients/families were more prepared for the transition to hospice care when patients and families participated in family meetings addressing goals of care and were more involved in decision-making processes. Most centers did not have procedures to follow-up after the transition to another formal care provider. Social workers indicated challenges with the inclusion of distress screening measures (CoC mandate), including variation in administration, interpretation, and notification of distress screening scores. Greater demand for social work services has resulted in higher caseloads, with no promise of increased staff forthcoming. Study implications include the need to improve patient/family preparation for care transitions in cancer centers through improved communication and education, especially for transitions to hospice. Social workers can take the lead in development of clear protocols for care transitions that will ensure continuity of care and positive quality of life outcomes.
A Case for Social Workers as Investigators in Public Defender Offices
Hurd, Amy L.; Cheatham, Leah P.; Davis, Curtis; University of Alabama Tuscaloosa
Social workers play a critical role in modern public defender offices, whether performing mitigation work for pre-trial negotiations and sentencing hearings or helping clients to secure access to basic human needs. Although social workers have held in-house positions in public defender offices since at least the 1970s, their service is largely limited to mitigation practice and traditional social work. This article raises an opportunity for social workers to broaden their capacity within public defense by pursuing investigator positions. A case is made for interested social workers to draw upon their education, training, and experience to showcase the alignment between their talents and the requisite skills and performance required of investigative work. Evidence is offered to support the notion that social workers bring skills and a social justice orientation to investigative work that can provide for fresh insight and innovation in investigation and defense strategy. The value brought to investigation by social workers throughout a legal defense is specified, as are considerations for applying and interviewing for investigator positions as social workers.
Cervical Cancer Elimination: Finding the Right Megaphone
(2025) Schad, Vivian; Cheatham, Leah; McKinney, Bob
"Introduction: Cervical cancer is preventable! The world can eliminate this devastating disease through increased vaccination and screening. Still, almost 14,000 people in the United States will receive a diagnosis of cervical cancer this year and over 4,000 will die from this preventable disease, disproportionately from underserved communities. Even with the need established and the elimination tools available, the healthcare community cannot find the right megaphone to effectively spread the word that we can abolish cervical cancer. Discovering the most successful approach to share this incredible message is the basis for the research question: How can healthcare educators most effectively communicate the message of cervical cancer elimination? The best way to share information with diverse populations is to have the culturally competent and relevant messages come from people who are most respected within their community. The unique voice of cervical cancer survivors can help healthcare educators build and deliver a trustworthy message. Methods: Designed through a Community Based Participatory Research lens, the researcher conducted one-on-one semi-structured interviews with ten cervical cancer survivors in north Alabama. The Institutional Review Board-approved interviews were consented, audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed. The interview data will inform outreach education proposals. Results: The survivors shared their thoughts on screening, HPV and vaccination, gave outreach suggestions, and recounted their lived cancer journey. The findings led to three outreach strategies. First, ensure outreach is trauma-informed. Second, design sensitive, clear, detailed and congruent outreach. Lastly, use varied routes for education to include social media, influencers and survivors to reach all generations. Discussion: Communities can implement this study’s strategies for robust and effective outreach. Even with the small sample size, this new knowledge builds on previous survivor and outreach literature and puts the right megaphone within reach. We can end cervical cancer. Let’s do this!"

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