Same Old Story or a New Chapter? Social Work Dissertation Research Revisited

Abstract

Purpose This study describes social work doctoral dissertation research over a 10-year period (2014–2024) and compares findings to a prior review (1998–2008) to characterize methodological and substantive shifts over time. Method A structured review of 525 dissertations was conducted. Data were independently extracted across research design, methodology, data source, practice area, and research populations, with chi-square analyses and odds ratios used to compare the two review periods. Results Dissertations in the current review period were approximately 37% less likely to employ quantitative methods and nearly twice as likely to utilize qualitative methods. Secondary data use more than doubled (OR = 2.13). Micro practice dissertations increased while dissertations focused on the social work profession declined. Research populations were otherwise relatively stable. Discussion These findings suggest meaningful methodological shifts consistent with broader theoretical trends towards postmodern and critical frameworks, with implications for social work doctoral education and research training curricula.