The purpose of this study is to explore the perceived knowledge and perception of effectiveness of the child welfare system (CWS) of future social workers who will be working children in foster care and navigating through the CWS. Through the use of self-administered questionnaires, quantitative data was collected that captured the perceived knowledge and perception of effectives of the CWS of 37 MSW students.

Overall, students felt knowledgeable in identifying types of child abuse, reporting procedures for suspected child abuse, the process once a report is made, family reunification services and ASFA timeframes. Additionally, most students believed that families are given enough time to reunify. However, over half felt that not all parents should be given the same timeframe. Students were equally divided when asked about the adequacy of family reunification services offered by CPS. Although some believe parents have a positive relationship with their CPS worker, most disagreed.