Missing persons: women in child welfare

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Women's Studies
• Public Policy

Background:

• The child welfare system disproportionately affects women, both as clients and professionals.
• Existing frameworks often overlook the gendered dynamics within child welfare services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the presence, visibility, and influence of women in child welfare.
• To identify obstacles preventing child welfare from being recognized as a women's issue.
• To propose feminist-informed strategies for systemic change.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of women's roles (clients, workers, decision-makers).
• Exploration of impediments to reconceptualizing child welfare.
• Discussion of four directions for change.

Main Results:

• Women are present at all levels but face challenges in visibility and influence.
• Reconceptualizing child welfare as a women's issue is hindered by systemic and ideological barriers.
• Feminist approaches offer potential for transformative change.

Conclusions:

• Child welfare is intrinsically linked to women's issues and requires a feminist lens.
• Consciousness-raising, organizing, and feminist integration are crucial for reform.
• Future feminist thought must center class and race within child welfare discussions.