Social Work Educators' Perceptions BSW Programs: Ethical Inspiration of Faith-Based and Conflicts.

Although social work educators generally agree upon the importance of teaching spirituality and religion, there is significant contention about the place of religion within social work education. This study explores social work educators' perceptions of social work programs that follow a particular religious tradition. Educators from Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs across the United States were surveyed to determine their perceptions of the potential benefits and concerns regarding faith-based programs. The findings identified perceived benefits in relation to ethical inspiration, cultural competence, and preparation for certain types of practice. Common concerns were related to potential conflicts between religious beliefs and social work ethics. The study also indicated significant differences of opinion between educators from faith-based programs and non-faith-based programs. By identifying specific differences, it is hoped that BSW educators can move the discussion from making broad statements about the ethics of faithbased programs to a constructive dialogue about particular benefits and ethical concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]