Summary:
In this episode of Kids at Risk Action, Michael and John examine the staggering costs and human impact of child protective services (CPS) and the interconnected child welfare and juvenile justice systems. They highlight troubling statistics, such as the high number of children reported to CPS each year, the underreporting of abuse, and the alarming link between CPS involvement and later incarceration. The hosts discuss the overwhelming financial burden of child maltreatment, including the costs of juvenile justice and adult incarceration, and stress the need for prevention programs that focus on early intervention, trauma-informed care, and community support. They argue that addressing root causes like poverty and improving aftercare services for children aging out of foster care are critical steps toward breaking the cycle of trauma. The episode calls for a shift from reactive responses to proactive solutions that can better protect and support vulnerable children.
Podcast Audio:
Doing the Math in Child Protective Services
#childabuse,#childhoodtrauma,#cps,#childprotectionservices,#economics,#kidsatriskaction,#kara,#juvenilejustice,#statistics,#criminaljusticesystem,#breakingthecycle
Original text with links to more information here