Only Liberal Views Welcome? The Experiences of Conservative BSW Students

The Council on Social Work Education emphasizes the importance of social work programs being inclusive of diversity, affirming of difference, and free from discrimination. Politically and religiously conservative students are often a minority in social work programs. This mixed methods study describes the perceptions and experiences of politically and religiously conservative BSW students in their social work programs. Primary themes were instructors devaluing and stereotyping, using authority inappropriately, shutting down discussions, and making assumptions about students. Implications for social work education are discussed, including supporting social work instructors in anticipating, acknowledging, and welcoming diverse religious and political ideologies in the classroom.