This paper discusses knowledge-for-practice, the actors involved in this as well as the terms 'evidence-based' and 'evidence-informed practice' and their meaning for social work practice and knowledge utilisation. Additionally, the aim of this paper is to describe the adaptation, reduction and modification of neuroscientific research findings, and how they move from 'scientific' findings to social work practice. Different aspects and perspectives of the knowledge utilisation process are specified. The methodology employed is based on a case study approach with expert interviews and focus groups. It is argued that training providers, and to a lesser extent practitioners, take part in the production of a 'practitioners' neuroscience', whereby Gibbon's (1994) concept of Mode 2 knowledge production is applied. A specific focus is placed on the concept of a professionalisation of social work practice through academic or scientific knowledge in the context of social work as a 'transdisciplinary science' (Buchner, 2012; Kleve, 2000; Obrecht, 2002; Mrttlestrass, 2003). The paper concludes with recommendations for knowledge providers and practitioners. These include ways of improving a critical perspective on knowledge from other disciplines and encouraging training providers and practitioners to become more active participants in this knowledge utilisation process.
