Evaluating Assessment Tools in Child Protection: A Conceptual Framework of Internal and Ecological Requirements

Despite substantial evidence on the higher predictive validity of empirically derived instruments compared to clinical judgement, controversy best direction in child protection assessment is far from over. We introduce a conceptual framework that may help explain why this continues. The distinguishes between internal and ecological requirements tools. First, existing frameworks have primarily focused refer psychometric qualities tool, which are theoretically independent organisational context. For these requirements, we suggest distinction three types validity: construct validity, indicative validity. Second, degree fit with determines how well tool works specific organisation: for example, whether makes sense practitioners, they readily adopt or tacitly adapt it, it fits objectives organisation goals individual workers. define four such requirements: adequacy, suitability, practicality utility. illustrated data an ethnographic study Switzerland. leads questions guide managers frontline workers developing, implementing evaluating standardised risk protection. Key Practitioner Messages value practice only partly depends tool's qualities, as predicting future maltreatment. In addition, must meet be oriented towards adequate definition maltreatment, support supported by procedures workers' competencies carrying out their effectively. When services consider developing new one, should assess equal care. Paying attention one set alone costly mistake. ‘The over’