A QUEST FOR CITATIONS? AN ANALYSIS OF AND COMMENTARY ON THE TREND TOWARD MULTIPLE AUTHORSHIP.

SOCIAL services; SOCIAL work education; SOCIAL sciences education; EDUCATION policy; HIGHER education

The article examines the trend toward multiple authorship related to social work education publications in the United States. The production of scholarship has long been the hallmark of the university. Longevity in an academic career is directly linked to the tenure system, and the granting of tenure, in most institutions of higher education, depends on publishing. However, in years past, social work faculty could obtain tenure without a substantial record of scholarly publications, because teaching and service, among other considerations, were often able to overcome a limited record of scholarly production in the tenure review process. The situation has changed substantially in recent years as universities strive for "excellence" and rankings. The purpose of this article is to explore the basis for the phenomenon of multiple authorship, the implications of multi-author scholarship, and potential ethical questions that may arise from such collaborations. Guidelines from related professions are reviewed regarding their utility for social work, and suggestions are offered in regard to when and under what circumstances multiple authorship is appropriate and beneficial. The authors hope these suggestions will form the basis for collegial discussion, faculty development workshops, and practical adaptation.