Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly transformed the landscape of child welfare work, with technology playing a pivotal role in shaping new dynamics and responses. This study examines the challenges and opportunities experienced by child welfare workers during the pandemic, focusing on the integration of technology in their practices. The research was undertaken to explore the dual impact of technological advancements and to identify strategies to support workers’ well-being and service efficacy. Its practical relevance lies in addressing systemic gaps in worker support and accessibility, while its theoretical significance emerges from an ecological systems framework, which contextualizes the interplay between individuals, technology, and broader social systems. Employing qualitative methods, this research draws on semi-structured interviews with child welfare workers, analyzed through thematic analysis. Key research tasks included exploring workers’ experiences with remote work, increased caseloads, and the use of digital platforms for service delivery. Findings reveal that while technology facilitated continuity of services and innovative solutions, it also exacerbated stress due to blurred work-life boundaries, unmet needs, and disparities in access. Limitations include regional variations in participants’ experiences and the unique pressures of the pandemic context. The study concludes that technology serves as both a burden and a tool for transformation in child welfare. Addressing unmet needs through training, resources, and equitable access can enhance the integration of technology into practice. These insights highlight the need for policy reforms that balance technology’s potential with its challenges, paving the way for a resilient, adaptive child welfare system capable of navigating future crises.
Presenters
Sarah MaiterProfessor, School of Social Work, York University, Ontario, Canada Daniel Kikulwe
Associate Professor, School of Social Work, York University, Ontario, Canada
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Child Welfare Workers; COVID-19 Pandemic; Work-life Balance; Technology Integration; Mental Health; Resilience and Adaptability
