Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Upon what factor does the assessment of risk consider?

1. Degree of harm

2. Availability of resources

3. Parental skills

4. Community involvement

The correct answer is: Degree of harm

The assessment of risk within child protection investigations primarily focuses on the degree of harm. Understanding the potential harm a child may face is crucial for evaluating the immediacy and severity of risks present in their environment. This aspect encompasses an analysis of past incidents of abuse or neglect, the severity of identified risks, and any potential future threats. By prioritizing the degree of harm, child protection professionals can better determine the need for intervention and the urgency of protective measures. While the availability of resources, parental skills, and community involvement are important considerations in the broader context of supporting families and mitigating risk factors, they do not directly assess the level of risk to the child in the same critical way that understanding the degree of harm does. Focusing on the harm allows for a targeted and effective response to ensure child safety as the foremost priority in any investigation.