Abstract: Submission #209

Abstract The disintegration of social work theory and practice has been a topic of concern over recent years. This qualitative study aims to explore the perceptions of social workers on factors hindering their application of social work theory into practice in order to gain an in-depth understanding of this phenomenon. Non-probability, in particular purposive sampling, was applied to select participants for the proposed study. Data was collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews, noting and recording the responses after obtaining permission from the participants. In analysing data, Creswell’s steps of qualitative data analysis were applied and relevant ethics for the study were adhered to. The findings of the study gave light on the perceptions of social workers on factors hindering their application of social work theory into practice. Furthermore, the findings uncovered different factors that hindered social workers to apply social work theory into practice. Major amongst all is the coloniality embedded in social work as an academic discipline and profession. The findings demonstrated how the lack of fit between the social work curriculum and the demands of the practice environment makes it impossible for social workers to apply what they were taught during training. Recommendations included amongst others the need to decolonise the social work curriculum and practice.