Competing Values and Evidence: How Do We Evaluate Mandated Reporting and CPS Response?

Abstract

Child protection policy relative to mandated reporting is analyzed in this chapter, beginning with a review of general values and goals in child welfare as found in international, national, and regional policy and law. We then use the best available empirical evidence to address a set of long-standing but largely flawed assumptions pertaining to the issue of mandated reporting. We discuss current services available in child protection, with an emphasis on emerging practices for children served in their homes. Finally, we conclude with a number of suggestions for future research and policy developments in this area.