Risk factors for the development of children and young people referred at a commission for the protection

Background: Helping children at risk or in danger requires careful assessment to make a sustained and coherent decision. Objectives: To identify caregiver-related risk factors that jeopardize the lives of children and young people referred to a Commission for the Protection of Children and Young People (CPCJ). Methodology: This descriptive exploratory study with a qualitative approach was conducted between October and December 2018 with a sample of 20 case files of children/young people referred to a CPCJ. The information collected from the case files was analyzed using Bardin’s technique. Results: The majority of caregivers are the parents (54%). Neglect was the most common problem among the children referred to the CPCJ. The following risk factors were highlighted: the family’s financial conditions; needs inherent to the child’s development; discipline methods; communication problems; mental health problems; lack of extended family support; and family relationship patterns. Conclusion: Risk factors were identified that could contribute to the development of an instrument for a concerted assessment adjusted to the families’ needs.