RISK ASSESSMENTS IN CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES

• NCJ Number: 145818
• Journal: Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 8 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1993) Pages: 446-467
• Author(s): H J Doueck; M Levine; D E Bronson
• Date Published: 1993
• Length: 22 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

An evaluation was conducted of the Child at Risk Field (CARF) system for predicting the likelihood of future child maltreatment.

Abstract

The authors compared child abuse and neglect cases open and indicated in a rural New York county between September 1, 1986 and June 30, 1987 (pre-CARF, n=118) and between September 1, 1988 and June 30, 1989 (CARF, n=89). To the extent that it was accurately implemented, CARF may have provided child protection workers--particularly those new to the field--with a systematic guide for decisionmaking on such matters as keeping an indicated case open and providing more services to children at higher risk. These decisions can be crucial, especially in rural areas where resources are usually limited. Decisions with CARF were not necessarily better, but to some degree were consistent with information collected using the CARF system. 3 tables and 32 references