Challenges for professional research into social work in social policies

Abstract

This article arises from reflections in the educational and research practice by the authors in the field of Social Work at the Western Campus of the University of Costa Rica. This practice revolves around the role of research in professional education and the possibilities of advocacy in social policies. The empirical reference points are the subject that is researched in the final graduation work encompassed in the period from 2012 to 2016. They are contextualized based on some indicators for the social-economic situation and for the positioning of Social Work in the field of public policy and, specifically, for social policies. The conclusion is that research is fundamental in professional work and that, when it is linked analytically to inequalities, impoverishment, and social violence, we are faced with an ethical-political challenge. Thus, we confirm the importance of the proximity between academic research performed by students and the professional exercise of Social Work at institutions and organizations.