Barriers of Retention in Child Welfare

Abstract

"Child welfare workers cover a large sector in the social work field, but it has very high turnover affecting vulnerable populations, costing the state money, and new social workers avoiding the welfare sector. The purpose of this study is to identify barriers child welfare workers encounter that cause them to leave that sector. Methodology: IRB- approved study from a qualitative approach via self- report survey based on the ProQOL-5 survey tool. Participants gathered via convenience sampling from one KY child welfare agency; employed between 2015-2021. The results will help identify and promote change so retention improves thus helping the vulnerable populations."