A Qualitative Exploration of Social Workers’ Job Preparedness in Law Enforcement Agencies

Abstract

Police agencies are increasingly integrating social workers in response to more calls regarding mental health and social welfare needs. Limited research captures the experiences and needs of social workers in law enforcement agencies. This article explores social workers’ job preparedness through a qualitative phenomenological study. The study includes a semistructured interview with 40 participants from across the nation to identify factors for job preparedness, social workers’ experiences, and perceived areas for development. As a result, seven themes emerged: exposure, a lack of understanding, unpredictability, programmatic growth and support, systemic challenges, assessment needs, and workplace culture. Most participants revealed that they did not feel prepared for their role but shared instances of helpful experiences, insights, and needs of the profession. The participants highlighted the need for social workers to continue to educate themselves to better prepare for the populations they serve. Several implications are discussed to address and enhance the needs of the profession.