An examination of attachment representations among child welfare professionals

Research has documented a relationship between adult attachment representations and client relationships and outcomes for professionals in relationship-based fields (e.g., Bernier and Dozier, 2002, Blakely et al., 2011, Dozier et al., 1994, Romano et al., 2008, Tyrrell et al., 1999, White, 2004, Zegers et al., 2006), but has not examined the child welfare professionals specifically. The current study examined attachment representations of 54 child welfare professionals. The Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) was administered to participants prior to attending a professional workshop. Results indicated significant differences between the AAI distribution of child welfare professionals and a non-clinical norm sample (AAI four-way distribution: Goodness of fit χ2 = 23.63, p < .01; Bakermans-Kranenburg & van IJzendoorn, 2009). Dismissing classifications were overrepresented and free-autonomous classifications were underrepresented. Results may indicate challenges in the child welfare system that could alter the effectiveness and decision-making processes of child welfare professionals. Further research is needed to evaluate whether these differences are typical for samples of child welfare professionals and if so, the impact it could have on families who are being served. Effective interventions, focused on shifting attachment from insecure to secure, for child welfare professionals also should be explored through further research.