The role of Title IV-E education and training in child protection workforce diversification. Issue 3 (27th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Piescher, Kristine N.; LaLiberte, Traci; Lee, Mihwa
• Is Part Of: Journal of public child welfare. Volume 12:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 333
• Page End: 353
• Publication Date: 2018-05-27
• Subjects: Child protection -- workforce -- Title IV-E education and training -- racial disproportionality -- diversity -- child welfare; Child welfare -- United States -- Periodicals; 362.70973
• DOI: 10.1080/15548732.2018.1447529
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1554-8732

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Educating, training, and diversifying the workforce are strategies that may help reduce racial/ethnic disparities that plague child protection system (CPS). Title IV-E education and training programs support the development of a specially trained, highly skilled workforce; yet, little research examining their impact on workforce diversification exists. The current study assessed the relationship between Title IV-E education and training and workforce diversity and leadership in a state system that is plagued with racial disparities using data from a statewide child welfare survey ( n = 679) and existing population-level sources. Findings revealed that while children of color were disproportionately overrepresented in the CPS, professionals of color were disproportionately underrepresented (as compared to the state's overall population and the population of children served within CPS). Title IV-E education and training programs were associated with both child protection workforce diversity and CPS leadership roles. Implications for recruitment, retention, education, and partnership are discussed.