Bruce Thyer

Dr. Bruce Thyer, a distinguished research professor and former dean at Florida State University's College of Social Work, discusses the vital role of single system design (SSD) in evaluating social work interventions. He shares real-world applications of SSD, such as its effectiveness in weight loss and group home settings. The conversation dives into the nuances of various design methodologies like AB and ABC, addressing concerns about generalizability, and emphasizes the ethical imperative for social workers to rigorously assess their practices.

In this conversation, Dr. Bruce Thyer, a Distinguished Research Professor and former Dean at Florida State University, delves into the world of experimental research design in social work. He reassures practitioners that feeling intimidated by experiments is common. Dr. Thyer shares practical tools like the CONSORT-SPI checklist and stresses the importance of appraising research critically. He also discusses ethical dilemmas in intervention design, the distinction between true and quasi-experiments, and the often-unrecognized value of precise research in shaping effective social work practices.

Dr. Bruce Thyer, a Distinguished Research Professor and former Dean at Florida State University, dives into the world of experimental research designs in social work. He discusses the evolution of these designs, from basic surveys to complex analyses, stressing their ethical importance. Thyer highlights practical applications through real-world examples, such as a dental healthcare study. He also emphasizes the critical role of random assignment and the need for rigorous evaluation of psychosocial interventions, aiming to empower social workers in their practice.