Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

School

Social Work

Advisor

So'nia Gilkey

Abstract

The term accidental filicide refers to the death of a child that occurs inadvertently due to abuse or neglect. In this category of child homicides, death was not the intended outcome. Stepparents outnumber biological parents as the primary perpetrators of accidental filicide based on data collected nationwide. There is limited research on how child protection social workers perceive the risk and safety associated with accidental filicide by stepparents. The objective of this study was to investigate the safety and risk factors related to accidental filicide and the perceived barriers through the lens of child protection social workers who investigated allegations of abuse in households containing stepparents. This study utilized social learning theory to examine how observation and imitation affected learning. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 12 social workers from a California metropolitan area child welfare agency using a generic qualitative study design. Four overarching themes and their subthemes were identified through thematic analysis. The themes developed were (a) family-centered worries, (b) family strengths, (c) personal and professional conflict, and (d) work–life balance. The findings of this study are essential for social workers when conducting safety and risk assessments of at-risk and abused children. Child welfare agencies, external stakeholders, and community partners can use the study to improve positive social change through existing policies & practices. Through the use of this data, society could ensure the safety and well-being of stepchildren who are susceptible to such threats.

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