Teaming up in child welfare: The perspective of guardians ad litem on the components of interprofessional collaboration

Abstract

Policies and researchers have emphasized the need for interprofessional collaboration (IPC) in the child welfare system. However, few child welfare studies have sought to identify the components of IPC and no studies have been conducted in the U.S. to examine the perspective of guardians ad litem (GALs) on these components. Understanding the GAL viewpoint is warranted as they are mandated to be appointed in court-involved child welfare cases. This qualitative study addresses these gaps by exploring the GAL perspective on the main components of IPC. Interviews were conducted with 12 GALs in a mountain region state. Nine components of IPC emerged from the analysis, including communication and information sharing; problem-solving; respect and appreciation; joint decision-making; clarifying roles, responsibilities and expectations; sharing ideas and perspectives; mutual trust; shared responsibility; and establishing shared goals. The findings can inform the development of strategies to improve IPC in child welfare and guide future research.