CPS Case Intensity, Workload, and Outcomes: Worker Characteristics Matter

Background and Purpose

Child Protection Services (CPS) caseworkers navigate numerous decision points during initial investigations that affect what happens after the investigation starts (i.e., the trajectory). While the influence of child and family dynamics on case outcomes is well-established in the literature, the role of caseworker-level characteristics remains a comparatively understudied area. Drawing upon Decision Making Ecology, this study investigates the correlation between caseworker characteristics and outcomes after controlling child/case characteristics. We hypothesize that effective decision-making regarding the likelihood of service referral, placement and recurrence hinges on caseworkers' experience and skills. Additionally, we aim to identify factors linked to case intensity and workload to develop a case taxonomy for strategic assignment and tailored work requirements, particularly for cases less likely to require intensive intervention beyond the initial investigation.

Methods

This study analyzed eight years (2017-2024) of linked CPS data (maltreatment, service, foster care) in a state to examine caseloads, case processes, and outcomes. Children's CPS involvement was mapped as event trajectories in temporal order (investigation followed by rereport, service, placement, or no further contact). Case-level and caseworker-level characteristics were then attached to these records. Multilevel random effects models were utilized to determine the influence of various child, case, and caseworker characteristics on outcomes. To account for local variations, a region-level random effect was incorporated into the models. Building upon these analyses, key factors influencing case intensity and outcomes were identified and subsequently used to construct a case intensity index to inform more effective CPS case assignment and management practices.

Results

The modeling work identifies the number of perpetrators, the perpetrator's relationship to the child, and the child's age as the strongest predictors of deeper CPS involvement (e.g., a placement following the investigation). Infants and children aged 1-5 with two or more perpetrators (regardless of relationship) and infants with one parent perpetrator constitute the highest-risk group. Children aged 6-17 with one parent perpetrator and children aged 1-17 with one non-parent perpetrator comprise the group least likely to become more deeply involved with the CPS system. The likelihood of further involvement varies across regions after controlling for child-, case-, and caseworker-level characteristics suggesting local administrative influence. Staff job tenure (years of experience and tenure in the current role) influences outcomes. For obvious reasons, workload increases when as a result of the investigation, placement referrals are necessary. These findings support strategic case assignment based on predicted risk using child, case, and worker characteristics for balanced caseloads, which may help manage worker burnout.

Conclusions and implications

Caseworker job tenure significantly affects outcomes, highlighting the importance of retention and development. Regional variation, everything else being equal, warrants further investigation into local practices and resource allocation. The case intensity index offers potential as a strategic case assignment and equitable workload tool. Future research in other jurisdictions should validate the case intensity index with local context in mind and explore the interaction of organizational and caseworker factors on outcomes to create more supportive work environments.