Qualitative Study of Causal Attribution for Difficulties Perceived by Social Workers in Supporting Single Middle‐Aged and Older Men

Abstract This study examined the causal attribution modalities of social workers facing difficulties in supporting single middle‐aged and older men (SMOM) with economic difficulties. An open‐ended questionnaire and interview survey (through semi‐structured interviews) were conducted, and data were analyzed via qualitative coding. Social workers tended to attribute their difficulties in supporting SMOM to individual causes. Social workers assessed whether the difficulties were controllable (attitudes and perceptions) or uncontrollable (abilities) factors for effective social work practices based on internal causal attributes. The results contribute to the proposal of support methods and training programs in social work for SMOM.