Supervision During Child Welfare System Reform: Qualitative Study of Factors Influencing Case Manager Implementation of a New Practice Model

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to learn from public child welfare case managers what they wanted from direct supervisors during times of organizational change. Case managers were interviewed about how supervisors supported or hindered their use of a new model of practice. Data were analyzed using a content analysis approach. Findings indicated that case managers want supervisors to communicate with them about how to perform their jobs under the new model and support to help alleviate the stress they experience from the uncertainty of organizational change.

KEYWORDS:

• child welfare
• system reform
• supervision

Notes

This research was supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice.