Anxiety Preceding Field Work

Abstract

Data from this exploratory study suggest that both graduate and undergraduate social work students have high levels of anxiety as they prepare to enter field practicums. A survey of 255 students identified self-doubts, time and stress management concerns, as well as interviewing and counseling related concerns. Undergraduates were twice as likely to express self-doubts as graduate students and reported higher levels of anxiety. Suggestions are made for lessening pre-placement anxiety and increasing students' feelings of preparedness.