Research and knowledge gaps in child welfare in the United States: A national survey of agency staff, allied disciplines, tribal leaders, and people who have experienced child welfare

Abstract

This article provides the results of a survey of individuals with varied experience in child welfare, including constituents who have experienced child welfare; caseworkers, managers, and other direct service providers; policymakers and judges; Native American experts, advocates, researchers, and program evaluators. Survey respondents were asked to identify research questions that need to be addressed to support youth and families and to prioritize funding to address gaps in knowledge. A majority of respondents identified large evidence gaps in tools and instruments and agency policy and rules, but prioritized funding for research in areas that would prevent abuse or neglect. Respondents identified a need for research to better reflect the realities of their lives. Varied responses across stakeholder groups illustrate that it is important to build partnerships throughout the field not only to develop necessary and relevant evidence, but also to facilitate acquisition, translation, and application of the evidence in the field.