Social Work Research at GSSW
A Catalyst for Social Change
Although their research interests are diverse, Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) faculty members, students and research partners share something in common: a focus on advancing social justice. We live this mission every day through research and scholarship that spans social work practice, policy and system reform.
Research at GSSW
Economics of Early Education
A recent study by the GSSW Butler Institute for Families explores how the economics of Colorado’s early childhood care and education industry impact its workforce, the state economy, and children and families.
Powering Prevention
GSSW’s Science for Action Series is fueling new collaborative efforts to address the Grand Challenges for Social Work through research, practice, policy and advocacy.
Public Impact Scholarship
GSSW Prof. Jennifer Greenfield studies the health implications of paid medical leave and advocates for reform, including testifying in support of the Colorado Medical Leave Insurance Act (FAMLI).
Community-Engaged Partnerships
Community needs and assets shape our research and scholarship agenda. For example, we host 16 intervention research studies and collaborate with 128 research partners. With support from 10 public and private partners statewide, the Climb@DU initiative is training social workers to meet behavioral health needs in underserved Colorado communities. Community partners also invest in our work, as do local, state and national foundations and agencies, funding more than $11.7 million in 2019–20 in annual research expenditures.
Faculty Book Spotlight
Connecting Civic Engagement and Social Innovation
By Dean Amanda Moore McBride
This book is an essential resource for those in higher education who wish to promote and advance social change, as it provides an opportunity to critically examine where we are with our civic engagement and social innovation approaches and what we might do to best realize their promise through changes in our educational processes, pedagogical strategies, evaluation metrics, and outcomes.
Helping the Suicidal Person: Tips and Techniques for Professionals
By Associate Professor Stacey Freedenthal
This book provides a practical toolbox for mental health professionals. The book covers the need for professionals to examine their own personal experiences and fears around suicide and then moves into essential areas of risk assessment, safety planning and treatment planning. It provides a rich assortment of tips for reducing the person’s suicidal danger and rebuilding the wish to live.
Loving Someone with Suicidal Thoughts
By Associate Professor Stacey Freedenthal
The book covers signs of suicide risk, shares treatment options and answers a range of common questions. Freedenthal emphasizes the importance of asking about suicide and “listening bravely” — that is, listening to what is frightening to hear without trying to change what you are hearing. The book also discusses self-care, including ways to cope with another person’s suicidal thoughts.
