Child Welfare Workers' Use of Theory in Working with Physical Child Abuse: Implications for Professional Supervision

Abstract

This article examines child welfare workers' understanding of physical child abuse and the implications for those supervising these workers. The article is based on the results of a study that involved in-depth interviews and focus groups with statutory child welfare workers. Analysis revealed that workers' understanding of physical child abuse embodied a wide range of ideas that were generally consistent with existing literature. The study highlights the value and utility of a reflective approach in stimulating and making explicit the theoretical underpinnings of child welfare workers practice. Specific implications for professional supervision are addressed.