Abstract

This three-paper dissertation examines Latino fathers’ engagement in Child Protective Services (CPS) cases through conceptual, family-level, and system-level analyses. Study 1 develops a conceptual model grounded in ecological systems theory, engagement theory, and Latino cultural constructs to identify multilevel barriers and facilitators shaping father involvement in CPS. Study 2 uses secondary data from the 2019 Panel Study of Income Dynamics and Child Development Supplement to assess gendered differences in psychological distress among Latino primary caregivers and whether distress predicts caregiving behaviors and harsh parenting practices. Study 3 analyzes National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well Being III data to compare Latino, Black, and White parents’ perceptions of service helpfulness, mental health needs, and referrals to parenting programs. Together, these studies advance understanding of Latino fathers’ experiences in child welfare contexts and highlight the need for culturally responsive engagement strategies and equitable service delivery to improve outcomes for Latino families.

Committee Chair

Brett Drake

Committee Members

Devin Banks; Eunhye Ahn; Melissa Jonson-Reid; Patricia Kohl

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Author's Department

Social Work

Author's School

Brown School

Document Type

Dissertation

Date of Award

5-4-2026

Language

English (en)

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Available for download on Friday, April 30, 2027

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Social Work Commons

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