Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What primary need should not lead to a child's removal from a parent according to child protection standards?

1. Love and affection

2. Poverty and homelessness

3. Educational support

4. Physical safety

The correct answer is: Poverty and homelessness

The primary need that should not lead to a child's removal from a parent, according to child protection standards, is poverty and homelessness. Child protection guidelines emphasize that economic hardship alone is not indicative of parental unfitness or an immediate threat to a child's well-being. While poverty can impact a family's ability to provide certain resources, it does not directly compromise the fundamental safety, love, and nurturing that a child requires. Child protection agencies are tasked with considering the broader context of a family's situation. They often provide support and resources to help families in need rather than removing children from their home simply due to financial struggles. This principle is grounded in the understanding that many parents facing poverty are still able to provide a loving and supportive environment for their children. In contrast, other factors like love and affection, educational support, and physical safety are critical for a child's development and well-being. If a child's physical safety is threatened, or there is a lack of necessary emotional and educational support, those situations may warrant more serious intervention. However, economic challenges alone do not meet the threshold for removal under child protection standards.