Positive orientation to practice with undocumented Latinos.

Abstract

The central purpose of this study was to gain a fundamental understanding of how social workers’ perceived level of knowledge associated with the socio-political and legislative issues impacting the lives of undocumented Latinos influence their ability to work effectively with this population. This quantitative exploratory study collected data by using a self-administered survey. In order to measure social workers’ perceived self-reported levels of efficacy when working with undocumented people a set of critical practice areas were measured. This study is important and relevant because it was conducted within the context of a socially, politically and legislative charged climate in relation to immigrant human rights. Having linkages with community resources aimed at helping undocumented Latinos and using evidenced-based practices known to work with this population was proven to be significantly associated to level of social work efficacy. On the other hand, willingness to treat was not significantly associated with any of the study variables. This finding underscored the commitment, ethical obligation and promise the field of social work has in providing services to vulnerable populations, regardless of some of the limitations they might encounter within their practice.