The What, Why and How of Child Participation—A Review of the Conceptualization of “Child Participation” in Child Welfare

This review explores the conceptualization of “child participation” in a child welfare context. The analyses are based on theories, models and concepts researchers apply when framing their studies. Central to authors’ conceptualizing is understanding why children should participate. Children’s rights common starting point for many authors, but they differ whether participate out consideration children’s intrinsic value (e.g., concern well-being) or instrumental participation itself service outcome). analysis also focuses how authors measure level. showed that most presented limited rights-focused goal collaboration with children, while minority group problematized concept. Although several emphasize requires process, few see meaning-making process as main purpose participation.