Assessing Statistical Change Indices in Selected Social Work Intervention Research Studies

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined how evaluation and intervention research (IR) studies assessed statistical change to ascertain effectiveness. Methods: Studies from six core social work journals (2009–2013) were reviewed ( N = 1,380). Fifty-two evaluation ( n = 27) and intervention ( n = 25) studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies were categorized by the statistical change indices and effect sizes reported. Only intervention studies were included in the final analysis. Results: Multivariate analysis of variance (28%) was the most frequently used primary change statistic and χ 2 (43%) was the most frequent secondary indicator. About 68% of studies reported effect sizes with Cohen’s d (28%) being the most frequent. Conclusion: In addition to assessing statistical significance, the extent of rigor lies in determining the size of any change or effect in evaluation and IR. Implications for social work practice and research are discussed.

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