The Political Participation of First Year Social Work Students: Does Practice Specialization Matter?

Authors

Jason Ostrander, Sacred Heart UniversityFollow
Janelle Bryan, Sacred Heart University
Addie Sandler, Westfield State University
Paula Nieman, Western New England University
Maureen Clark, Westfield State University
Emily Loveland, Department of Social Services
Tanya Rhodes Smith, University of Connecticut

Abstract

This study identifies the types of political participation engaged in by MSW students (n=214). A self-report survey administered to MSW students at a Northeastern university indicates limited political involvement. MSW students participate in political activities not requiring significant time, energy, or resources. Furthermore, on the scale and its two subscales, micro-oriented students had less political participation than macro-oriented students. This study suggests first-year social work students may lack the tools to engage in the political process effectively. Schools of social work should include political participation education in both micro and macro foundation courses and field placements.

Recommended Citation

Ostrander, Jason; Bryan, Janelle; Sandler, Addie; Nieman, Paula; Clark, Maureen; Loveland, Emily; and Smith, Tanya Rhodes (2018) "The Political Participation of First Year Social Work Students: Does Practice Specialization Matter?," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 45: Iss. 3, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.4215
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol45/iss3/4