“Things that People on the Outside Looking in Don’t Understand”: Child Welfare System Workers' Perspectives of Child Fatality

Abstract

Across most cultures, the death of a child has been referenced as one of the most traumatic losses imaginable. It challenges our core beliefs about the natural order of the human lifespan and leaves a tremendous impact on the grieving community (Geiss et. al, 1998). Critical examinations of experiences surrounding child death can reveal deeply held attitudes and common beliefs regarding grief responses. This qualitative study explored specific experiences of grief and bereavement from the perspectives of child welfare professionals who are involved in child fatality cases. Nine interviews explored the perspectives of Maryland’s child welfare workers. A rigorous thematic analysis identified and organized patterns in the data across interviews. Emergent themes included persistent sorrow, navigating judgment and blame, coping with emotions and preventing death. Implications are discussed for grief-informed practice in child fatality settings.