Evidence, Outcomes and Practice in Child Protection (From Symposium on Evidence-based Practice in Child Protection, P 16-20, 2001, -- See NCJ-187318)

• NCJ Number: 187321
• Author(s): Ian O'Connor
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 5 pages
• Corporate Author: Families, Youth and Community Care Queenland; University of Queensland, Dept of Social Work and Social Policy
• Sale Source: Families, Youth and Community Care Queenland
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: Australia
• Note: Paper from the Symposium on Evidence-based Practice in Child Protection, Brisbane, Australia, November 28, 2000

Annotation

This paper argues for a cultural and professional shift to a focus on outcomes in the provision of child protection services, which involves an evidence-based orientation to child protection practice.

Abstract

An outcomes focus is needed, because child protection requires that a society clearly articulate what it is seeking to achieve through its child protection system and practices, other than the provision of child protection services. Reasonable outcomes at a system wide and individual level must be identified. An evidence-based orientation is required, because it is clear that the short-term and long-term consequences of child abuse and neglect are detrimental to individuals and society; interventions can bring both positive and negative outcomes for individuals and families. Researchers and practitioners are beginning to understand some of the factors associated with the delivery of a good outcome. Such evidence must be linked to practice. The author advocates an orientation rather than a model. Practice will be improved at an individual and systemic level if a more rigorous approach to policy and practice is adopted. By discussing an outcome-focused, evidence-based orientation, this paper addresses the manner in which research may inform practice and vice versa, taking into account the realities of child protection work. Also discussed is what qualifies as evidence in the child-protection context and how evidence-collection might be incorporated into practice.