Children's Bureau Express

Child Welfare Social Workers Give Positive Survey Responses

Child welfare caseworkers with degrees in social work appear to have more positive experiences and be better prepared for their work than other child welfare caseworkers, according to a recent survey by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). The NASW surveyed their members in the Child Welfare Specialty Practice Section about issues such as salaries, workload, and satisfaction with various aspects of the job. A total of 534 responded to the mail survey. Survey results were then compared to those from other surveys of all child welfare caseworkers, although no distinction was made between workers in public and private child welfare agencies.

In addition to survey responses about existing conditions, the report offers a number of recommendations for improvements in the field. Social workers' suggestions included more positive portrayals in the media, better funding, more emphasis on children's well-being, and better trained staff.

The NASW survey publication, "If You're Right for the Job, It's Best Job in the World," can be downloaded from the NASW website at www.naswdc.org/practice/children/NASWChildWelfareRpt062004.pdf.

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