Work

Exploring perceived factors influencing cross-system collaboration between Child welfare and behavioral Health: A qualitative study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Parental substance use disorder (SUD) significantly increases complexity and severity of child maltreatment. Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START), an evidence-based intervention, has improved unification and reduced recurrence of maltreatment risk through cross-system collaboration between child welfare and behavioral health organizations. Currently little is known about perceived factors influencing successful collaboration. Objective: This qualitative study identified factors that influenced cross-system collaboration in a state-wide implementation of an integrated social service and behavioral health intervention. Participants and setting: Embedded in an implementation study of Ohio START, this study used semi-structured small group interviews with 104 administrators and frontline providers, and structured focus groups with 26 child welfare caseworkers and family peer mentors. Method: Virtual small-group interviews were conducted between January 2020 and April 2021, and structured focus groups were conducted in February 2021. To identify barriers and facilitators of cross-system collaboration, thematic analysis was applied to transcripts, using inductive and deductive coding methods. Results: Overall, participants from both child welfare and behavioral health fields reported positive collaboration experiences and noted improvement in mutual understanding and service provision. Two main barriers emerged: misalignment of treatment requirements and expectations, and varied attitudes toward substance use and treatment. Facilitators included prior established collaboration, dedicated collaboration personnel, and supportive leadership. Conclusions: Cross-systems alignment of services and expectations, efforts to address stigma and negative perceptions, and leveraging leadership support and dedicated personnel are crucial for successful cross-system collaboration.

Source: Child Protection and Practice

DOI: 10.1016/j.chipro.2026.100336

Authors: Yuanyuan Hu, Emmeline Chuang, Fawn Gadel, Jen McClellan, Alicia Bunger

Institutions: University of Minnesota, University of California, Berkeley, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Child Welfare and Adoption

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,200