Research based knowledge has a vital role to play in helping our society tackle the complex and varied social problems that we see throughout our communities today. Persistent poverty, truancy, teen pregnancy, drug addiction, displacement from natural disasters, violence and inadequate care for the elderly or disabled population are just a few examples of the current issues we face. today. Within the field of social work, it is essential that we confront these problems with accurate information so that, as a profession, we can help change the outcome for vulnerable populations and the communities within which they live.
Data collected, analyzed, and evaluated using the tools that scientific based research has to offer, provides facts and insights that are framed within more accurate assumptions than conventional wisdom, anecdotal data and casual experience. Knowledge that is independent from bias can also help shed light on key findings that otherwise would be controversial or obscured by special interests. In addition, actual experiences can also be systematically documented and their successes evaluated to insure that their impact ripples throughout communities for the benefit of society.
For many years now, the Office of Social Services Research and Development (OSSRD), within the LSU School of Social Work, has shown its commitment to advancing social science research by supporting the work of the School and the interdisciplinary efforts of faculty across the campus. OSSRD has been leading the way for social work and other social science faculty to seek and maintain the external funding and support that will enable individuals, agencies and other organizations to develop programs and policies that will transform the way we deliver benefits to our most vulnerable clients. Results of our research not only provides solutions to the toughest problems and raises awareness among the general public of the extent of difficulty we face in our state and nation, but also empowers social workers, as well as the leaders and organizers with whom we work, to inform policy in the state.
Our research staff has the tools necessary to undertake an extensive inquiry of complex social topics with success. As we continue to lead, transform and empower lives we invite you to see how we can help you change your community with our research. We welcome any inquiries, projects, and partnerships. Let us know how we can help you.
Sincerely,
Cecile Guin, Ph.D., LCSW
Director
Office of Social Service Research and Development
School of Social Work
311 Huey P. Long Field House
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Phone: (800) 848-7111
Phone: (225) 578-5875
Fax: (225) 578-1357
