A Study of Case Management Processes and Problems in Handling Child Abuse Cases by Social Workers in Child and Family Shelters

Abstract

This qualitative research examined case management processes and challenges for social workers assisting abused children at family shelters. Data was collected by in-depth, semi-structured interviews with eight social workers from four regions, chosen by purposive sampling. Results were that 1) the case management process comprised eight stages: problem identification; screening and referral; assessment; service planning; implementation; monitoring and evaluation; review; and case closure. Social workers are essential coordinators with intra- and interorganizational multidisciplinary teams to ensure that help suits each case; 2) four aspects of case management challenges were identified: organizational, due to insufficient personnel, budget, and support systems; multidisciplinary teams, through coordination issues and ambiguous role assignments; service users, from limited familial and entourage cooperation; and case managers, associated with excessive workload, job stress, accumulated pressure, emotional issues, and limited opportunities for continuous skill and knowledge development. These findings suggest that organizational support systems, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and including the promotion of continuous development of skills and knowledge among social workers.