Scoping review uncovers core frameworks for antiracist policy analysis in social work, highlighting the need for community engagement, analyst reflexivity, and intersectional approaches.
As part of tackling racism, social workers would benefit from being able to identify and implement antiracist approaches to policy analysis. The aim of this study was to locate peer-reviewed or reputable sources that offer either explicit frameworks or built concepts that could inform antiracist policy analysis. We identified 561 sources; after screening out off-topic or irretrievable sources, 27 sources were included in this scoping review. Our charting process documented where we found each source, key publication details, the source’s aim/purpose, and key built concepts related to antiracist analysis. We detail common themes, including: (a) policy process; (b) history and problem definition; (c) policy content and decisions; (d) policy values and knowledge; (e) policy outcomes and effect; (f) implementation, evaluation, and accountability; and (g) analyst reflexivity. We conclude by discussing the compelling analytical considerations that emerged from this analysis, including creating pathways for community engagement; recognizing that racism is a constantly morphing problem requiring evolving solutions; questioning and revealing the intentions of those who draft, support, and implement policies perpetuating language that blames disadvantaged communities; understanding that racism intertwines with other injustices; and prompting self-reflection by analysts. We discuss the relevance for social work educators, students, practitioners, and community advocates.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Seelman et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: