General Counselling and Evidence-Based Interventions in Norwegian Child Welfare and Protection Services: A Study of Practices and Perceptions.

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the utilization and perceptions of general counseling and evidence-based parenting programs within Norway's Child Welfare and Protection Services (CWPS). It aims to explore the interventions employed, their justifications, and the attitudes of CWPS workers.

Materials and methods: The study combines results from two studies, a cross-sectional case file study (n = 1,365) and a survey of CWPS workers (n = 240). Case files were coded for intervention types, justifications, and outcomes. The survey assessed workers' practices, knowledge, and attitudes toward evidence-based programs.

Results: General counseling was the most frequently used intervention (71.2%), often justified by concerns about parental functioning and child development. Evidence-based parenting programs were rarely utilized, despite positive attitudes among CWPS workers. Significant barriers included resource limitations and lack of training. Logistic regression revealed that general counseling was more likely when concerns about parenting were substantiated.

Discussion: The findings highlight the reliance on general counseling, which is often tailored by individual workers, leading to variability in content and delivery. While evidence-based programs are underutilized, their integration could enhance service quality. The study underscores the need for clearer definitions of general counseling and greater support for implementing structured interventions.

Conclusion: Addressing barriers to evidence-based program implementation and standardizing general counseling practices are critical for improving child welfare services in Norway.