Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice
Advisor
Mary Vogel
Committee Member
James Jackson
Keywords
Black casworkers, Black social workers, child welfare, child welfare workforce, human services retention, workforce retention
Abstract
The problem addressed by this study was that the turnover rate among social workers has been highest for Black female child-welfare caseworkers. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to understand the experiences of Black female child-welfare caseworkers and effective strategies for retention. Ten experienced Black female caseworkers in child welfare were interviewed; participants represented five U.S. states. Participants were asked about mentorship programs, preservice training, financial incentives, major concerns related to retention, and recommendations for retention initiatives to specifically address the needs of Black female caseworkers. Themes emerged related to Black female caseworkers in child welfare. Mentorship programs should be culturally responsive and include opportunities to build relationships within the organization. Preservice training activities should include simulations that are realistic and reflective of job duties and responsibilities; should be standardized for efficacy; and should include components addressing race and racism in child welfare. Low pay rates and inequitable salaries present challenges retaining Black female caseworkers in child welfare. Financial incentives focused on meeting the needs of Black female caseworkers and their families are essential for retention. Additionally, student loan forgiveness needs to be more accessible to fully benefit Black female caseworkers. In terms of preferred practices, addressing racism is essential for retaining Black female caseworkers in child welfare. Organizational culture impacts the experiences of Black female caseworkers. Most caseworkers feel undervalued, which needs to be addressed through organizational strategies that reflect value for the unique experiences of Black female caseworkers.
NSUWorks Citation
Anna Koehle. 2023. Preferred Practices to Retain Black Female Caseworkers Employed in Child Welfare. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. (483)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/483.