Child Welfare Workers and Knowledge Associated with Indicators and Behaviors of Illicit Drug Use

Main Article Content

Samantha Ingham
Gary Dick

Abstract

By Samantha Ingham, Social Work


Advisor: Gary Dick


Presentation ID: AM_A52


Abstract: Child Welfare workers are responsible for protecting children from situations of abuse, neglect, and other forms of maltreatment. Child welfare workers focus on ensuring the social, physical, psychological and emotional well-being of their clients (Hamilton Country Job and Family Services, 2018). In the past five years, Child welfare social workers have been in crisis due to the current opioid epidemic that has altered the lives of so many (Heroin Epidemic Straining Child Protection Resources, 2016). Abuse of alcohol and other drugs is the root of many child welfare problems, yet child welfare workers are not mandated by the state to receive proper training on drugs and substance use. The requirements to become a child welfare worker also do not require any previous knowledge or training on drug use and or drug behaviors. The aim of this study is to determine if child welfare workers have adequate knowledge of the indicators and behaviors associated with illicit drug use through agency training.

Article Details

Section
AM Poster Session -- Great Hall -- A: Social Justice & Social Well-Being