Early Childhood Interventionists' Perceptions of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act: Provider Characteristics and Organizational Climate

Abstract

Research Findings: A 2003 amendment to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) required states to develop plans to ensure that children younger than the age of 3 years who are victims of substantiated abuse or neglect have access to developmental screenings. Programs authorized under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act are the designated providers of developmental screening and intervention services. This study explored the relationship of provider characteristics and organizational climate to the attitudes of early childhood interventionists about CAPTA. Findings indicate that publicly employed early childhood interventionists are generally willing to serve children referred from child welfare under CAPTA. Older workers are perhaps a little more skeptical about Part C's responsibilities under CAPTA. Regression analysis found that a positive organizational climate is associated with more positive perceptions of these responsibilities. Practice or Policy: When interventionists are viewed in an organizational context, it becomes easier to see how their attitudes and practices reflect systemic influences. Early childhood intervention program administrators should consider initiatives to foster positive work environments. This is especially important when service providers are required to implement new initiatives.