Need profiles and risk of reinvestigation among families following a first closed child welfare investigation: A longitudinal study in Québec

Background
In most child welfare (CW) investigations, no immediate safety concerns are identified, the case is closed, often with referrals to other services. However, for families with chronic needs, a lack of support services can result in repeated CW investigations. Research on the needs of these families and their access to services is needed to help tailor effective responses while minimizing protection-oriented interventions.
Objectives
To identify need profiles in a representative provincial sample of families whose cases were closed after a first CW investigation, and to examine the risk of subsequent and substantiated reinvestigations.
Methods
Latent class analysis was used to identify profiles of family needs at the time of the initial investigation. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine associations between latent profiles and time to reinvestigation over nine years follow-up period. Fine–Gray competing risk models were subsequently conducted to estimate association between latent profiles and the cumulative incidence of substantiated reinvestigation, treating unsubstantiated reinvestigation as a competing event.
Results
Four need profiles were identified, each associated with varying levels of reinvestigation. Only one profile, marked by parental complex needs and poverty, was significantly associated with substantiated reinvestigations.
Conclusions
Families with closed CW investigation cases show diverse patterns of needs and services trajectories, underscoring the importance of tailored community support. Early intervention and preventive strategies are crucial for reducing recurring CW involvement and reliance on exceptional protective measures.