아동보호체계 내 재학대 발생에 대한 실무자들의 인식과 경험에 관한 연구

초록

This study explored the perspectives and experiences of Korean child protection system (CPS) workers regarding the recurrence of child maltreatment, particularly in light of its recent upward trend. A total of 11 participants, including child protective services public officials and counselors from child protection agencies, took part in focus group interviews (FGIs). From their perspectives, the study explored the characteristics of recurrent child maltreatment and reasons for its increase, how current case management and responses to recurrence are being carried out, and what improvement measures are needed to prevent recurrence. The qualitative data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results showed that practitioners differed in how they understood and responded to recurrent maltreatment, and that they viewed its meaning in a multifaceted way beyond simple numerical indicators. Rather than viewing recurrence solely as a negative outcome, participants interpreted it as an effect of reporting and monitoring systems and as an indication that case management was ongoing. They suggested that recurrence stems not only from risk factors inherent in individual cases but also from insufficient responses at various stages of child protection intervention, including investigation, case management, and case closure, highlighting its multilayered nature. In addition, participants proposed a range of measures that should be implemented within the current child abuse response system to prevent recurrence. Based on these findings, this study discusses the meaning of recurrent child maltreatment and presents implications for improving child protection systems to enhance responses to and prevention of recurrence.

키워드