In Search of a Silver Bullet: Child Welfare's Embrace of Predictive Analytics. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Church, Christopher E.; Fairchild, Amanda J.
• Is Part Of: Juvenile & family court journal. Volume 68:Number 1(2017)
• Page Start: 67
• Page End: 81
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: Child Welfare -- Foster Care -- Data Analysis -- Predictive Analytics -- Predictive Modeling -- Child Protection -- CPS; Juvenile justice, Administration of -- United States -- Periodicals; Juvenile courts -- United States -- Periodicals; Domestic relations courts -- United States -- Periodicals; 346.015
• DOI: 10.1111/jfcj.12086
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0161-7109

Abstract

Abstract: Predictive analytics has shaken up a number of fields, including child welfare. Predictive analytics refers to the process of applying statistical algorithms to data to make informed guesses about future events. Although predictive analytics can help professionals make decisions more accurately, objectively, and quickly, there is a concern that some methods may result in discriminatory practices or consequences for vulnerable children and families. This paper examines a number of programmatic and ethical considerations for determining the appropriate role of predictive analytics in child welfare.