학술논문

Case conceptualization in child welfare: an underused resource to improve child, family, and provider outcomes
Document Type
article
Source
Frontiers in Psychiatry, Vol 14 (2024)
Subject
child maltreatment
case conceptualization
child welfare
child mental health
intimate partner violence
family violence
Psychiatry
RC435-571
Language
English
ISSN
1664-0640
Abstract
Case conceptualization, formally known as case formulation, is one tool that assists in determining the best course of action for children and families experiencing family violence that has been under-utilized in child welfare. In this article we present a step-by-step case conceptualization process that considers the child welfare context. We then present a hypothetical case example of a 10-year-old child referred by a child welfare worker to evidence-based treatment for mental health and behavioural concerns. Mental health services are not helpful for the child and further consultation is enlisted. To more effectively guide intervention and treatment planning and ultimately improve outcomes for the child, we present case conceptualization as a process that incorporates relevant aspects of the child and family’s history and circumstance. We conclude with a succinct case conceptualization and treatment plan to show how the prognosis of the child can be improved when case conceptualization is employed.