NCJ Number
188390
Date Published
May 1999
Length
101 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the feasibility of developing a program to collect and disseminate qualitative information on child victimization and protection.
Abstract
The purpose of this paper was to first, identify Canadian sources of narrative and descriptive or qualitative information relating to child victimization and protection from institutions, agencies, service providers and professionals involved in the child protection process. Second, gain access to and analyze samples of qualitative information. Third, identify what information or kinds of information, from those sources, if disseminated to other sectors involved in child protection, would promote child protection and prevention of child victimization. Lastly, identify, through interviews and examination of relevant legislation, protocols and policies, how qualitative information would be systematically collected and distributed in a meaningful and useful way to concerned sectors on a national basis. The objective is to create a program that acts as a central focus for the collection of information from and the distribution of qualitative information to all sectors or agencies involved in the child protection process. One proposed model was the creation of a federal Commissioner for Canada’s Children. It involves the creation of a function similar to children’s advocates in the provinces and territories. The Commissioner would conduct, commission, coordinate, and assist with the evaluation, review, highlight and dissemination of research concerning children’s rights and interests. It was determined that the feasibility of establishing a national information dissemination program depends largely on the extent to which the intended or potential recipients of the information perceive that the program will produce useful information, unavailable elsewhere or through other means, to assist them in their work and help achieve their goals and purposes.