Home attachment-based interventions in child protection services: A systematic review

Background

Child Protection Services (CPS) are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of children, protecting them from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and other forms of harm. Research indicates that children who have experienced such violence are more likely to develop behavioral or mental health issues and face a higher risk of disorganized attachment compared to the general population (Dozier et al., 2001; Pears & Fisher, 2005). In response, attachment-based interventions implemented within the home environment have emerged as a promising approach to address the complex needs of children and families involved in the child protection system, including biological parents, extended families, or foster families.

Objective

This systematic review aims to explore and synthesize the existing literature on home attachment-based interventions within the context of Child Protection Services.

Participants and setting

Twelve studies describing four home-based interventions were identified. These studies involved samples of caregivers and children ranging in age from birth to 9 years old.

Methods

A search of PsycINFO, Web of Science, and PubMed was conducted for studies published between 2014 and 2023. Studies were included if they detailed home-based interventions and reported on outcomes related to attachment or sensitivity. The studies varied in terms of intervention modalities, sample sizes, age groups, and outcomes.

Results

The findings suggest that home attachment-based interventions in Child Protection Services show potential for improving caregiver-child relationships and addressing attachment-related issues.

Conclusions

By intervening within the familiar context of the home and utilizing the principles of attachment theory, these interventions hold significant promise for fostering secure, nurturing relationships between caregivers and children.