Qualitative investigation into assessment approaches to maltreated pre-school children in care and clinical research portfolio

BF Psychology

Spedsberg, Maria Schelde ; Minis, Helen

University:University of Glasgow

Department:Institute of Health and Wellbeing

关键词: Infant mental health, best trial, qualitative research.;   

Others  :  http://theses.gla.ac.uk/75056/1/2019SpedsbergDClinPsy.pdf

来源: University of Glasgow

【 摘 要 】

Background: Infant mental health is crucial for healthy development. Children who have experienced adversities and are looked after in care need to be supported to form healthy attachment through a permanent placement as soon as possible. A major randomised control trial (RCT) called the Best Service Trial (BeST?) is currently investigating the most effective assessment framework for when children enter care. The assessments are facilitated by a social work service called Family Assessment and Contacts Service (FACS) and a team called the Glasgow Infant Mental Health Team (GIFT).Aim: The research aims to explore the perspective of those involved in the assessment of cases of child maltreatment and their experiences of the wider child welfare system.Methods: A case study approach was used to gain an in-depth insight. Thematic Analysis (TA) was used to analyse the transcripts from the key stakeholders surrounding four families, which were assessed by either GIFT or FACS.Results: Three key themes were identified across the dataset. The importance of the duration of the assessment process, the need for effective communication during this and that the legal structure has a significant influence on the overall experience and outcomes.Conclusions and implications: The study found that joint working was improved by open communication and that delays in outcomes are rooted in concerns around the child having to wait for a long-term home. It was highlighted that training for the Children’s Hearing System could improve the current structure.