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Research Interests:

Professional ethics and education; evidence-based practice; professional decision making; social learning theory; behavioral methods; evaluation of practice; social skills training.

Selected Publications:

Gibbs, L. & Gambrill, E. (1999). Critical Thinking For Social Workers: Exercises For The Helping Professions (2nd edition), Pine Forge.

Gambrill, E. (1997). Social Work Practice: A Crtical Thinker's Guide, Oxford.

Gambrill, E. & Pruger, R. (Eds.), (1997). Controversial Issues In Social Work Ethics, Values and Obligations, Boston: Allyn & Bacon.

Eileen Gambrill on Critical Thinking:

Problem solving and decision making, whether explicit or implicit, are at the heart of social work. The purpose of thinking critically about practice-related claims is to maximize services that are effective in achieving valued outcomes and to minimize ineffective and harmful services. Good intentions are not enough to protect clients. Critical thinking involves the careful appraisal of beliefs and actions to arrive at well-reasoned ones. It involves reasonable and reflective thinking focused on deciding what to believe or do. Viewed broadly, the process is part of problem solving. It requires clarity of expression, critical appraisal of evidence and reasons, and consideration of alternative points of view. Critical thinkers question what others do not. They challenge accepted beliefs and ways of acting. They ask questions such as: Have there been any critical tests of this claim? What are the results? Could there be another explanation?

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