Child Protective System in Ohio, U.S.

Abstract

Ohio’s child protective services operate on a two-track response system in which child abuse cases are dealt with according to the level of risk presented. In contrast to Korea’s unified system focused on investigation and the determination of maltreatment, the differential response approach assigns high-risk cases the traditional pathway of formal investigation and determination, while lower-risk, manageable cases are directed to an alternative track where the child’s needs are assessed and supportive services are offered contingent on voluntary family engagement. This approach reduces the need for child removal and has been shown to be effective in preventing further abuse.