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Effects of Age Expectations on Oncology Social Workers' Clinical Judgment

Effects of Age Expectations on Oncology Social Workers' Clinical Judgment

Authors :
Conlon, Annemarie
Choi, Namkee G.
Source :
Research on Social Work Practice. Jul 2014 24(4):477-490.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the influence of oncology social workers' expectations regarding aging (ERA) and ERA with cancer (ERAC) on their clinical judgment. Methods: Oncology social workers (N = 322) were randomly assigned to one of four vignettes describing a patient with lung cancer. The vignettes were identical except for the patent's age and gender. Structural equation modeling served as the primary tool for testing the study hypotheses. Results: Significant differences were found in clinical judgment based on patient's age, and social workers' ERA and ERAC which affected diagnostic and treatment judgment for all patients. Lack of congruence was also found between the diagnosis and treatment phases of care for older patients. Emotional reaction was more often reported for the younger patient. Conclusion: Results suggest a barrier to "whole patient" care for all cancer patients and a need for student and practitioner training to place greater emphasis on the treatment phase of patient care.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1049-7315
Volume :
24
Issue :
4
Database :
ERIC
Journal :
Research on Social Work Practice
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
EJ1032003
Document Type :
Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731513513840