Practices Changes in the Child Protection System to Address the Needs of Parents With Cognitive Disabilities

Abstract

Parents with cognitive disabilities are over-represented in the child protection system. However, this system is not well prepared for working with them. Biases against their parenting, the need for accommodations, staff training, and cross systems barriers must be addressed. This article argues for changes to ensure parents are more effectively served and that staff and contract providers are better equipped. Specific changes are discussed in assessment and intervention practices. They will require human capacity building and organizational restructuring. Although behavioral approaches will be emphasized, recent research suggests cognitive behavioral cognitive approaches must also be integrated into a blueprint for change.

KEYWORDS:

• parents
• social information processing
• disabilities
• child welfare

Notes

The writing of this article was made possible by funding provided by NICHD (#5R01HD53713) to the first author.