This article discusses preliminary findings of a sequential exploratory study that aims to examine the relationship between research and intervention from the perspective and experiences of Chilean social workers. Drawing upon a thematic analysis of 17 interviews with frontline social workers, the findings suggest that an understanding of social work as a practical task persists in the interviewees' accounts. However, dissenting voices are also identified, in which social research is seen as a strategy that may help reinforce social workers' commitment to emancipation. The barriers to the integration of research in social workers' interventions are discussed, and academic and professional challenges on the matter are identified.