Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What is the difference between safety and risk in child protection?

1. Safety is a past concern; risk is future-oriented

2. Safety is ongoing; risk has already occurred

3. Safety is immediate; risk involves potential future harm

4. Safety is always assured; risk cannot be predicted

The correct answer is: Safety is immediate; risk involves potential future harm

The distinction between safety and risk in child protection emphasizes that safety refers to an immediate and present condition, while risk pertains to the potential for future harm to a child. Safety is assessed based on current circumstances and conditions that directly affect a child's well-being, and the aim is to ensure that the child is safe from harm at that moment. In contrast, risk involves evaluating the likelihood of harm occurring in the future based on various factors, such as family dynamics, environmental conditions, and past incidents. This future-oriented aspect of risk assessment is critical in child protection, as practitioners must consider not only the immediate safety of a child but also any ongoing factors that might threaten their well-being over time. Understanding this distinction is vital for professionals in child protection since it influences how investigations are conducted, interventions are planned, and services are provided to families in need. By focusing on both safety and risk, child protection specialists can better protect children and support families effectively.