Intersectionality and structural gendered racism: Theoretical considerations for Black women, children, and families impacted by child protective services in the United States

Abstract

This critical review uses the frameworks of intersectionality and structural gendered racism to understand the racialized, gendered, and class-based oppression regarding the overrepresentation of poor Black women, children, and families within child protective services (CPS) in the United States. The review begins with a discussion of intersectionality and examines the origins of CPS, along with the potential causes for overrepresentation within the system. Finally, the article presents a detailed overview of how structural gendered racism is manifested within CPS practices and policies. It is imperative that practitioners, administrators, and policymakers acknowledge the utility of applying the frameworks of intersectionality and structural gendered racism in understanding the disproportionate contact of poor Black women, children, and families within the system. It is important to work toward practice and policy interventions to improve the overall well-being of this population. Implications for social work practice and policy are discussed.