NCJ Number
145111
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: (1992) Pages: 101-120
Date Published
1992
Length
20 pages
Annotation
The authors develop a profile of the adult protective services (APS) worker.
Abstract
Data on demographics, employment history, professional preparation, education, and job stress were collected in a survey among 580 public service social workers in North Carolina--218 APS workers and 232 non-APS workers. APS workers had a smaller average caseload (49.0 cases) than did non-APS workers (55.5 cases). For APS workers, having a social work degree is associated with a larger caseload; for non-APS workers, a smaller caseload. As APS workers serve more demented or mentally ill clients, they may experience greater job stress, which could explain why they complain more despite their smaller caseloads. Despite such stress, APS workers appear to be more committed to their jobs than are their non-APS counterparts. APS workers also value education more. Among both types of workers, professional training indicated reduced commitment, probably due to the lure of private and nonprofit sector work. 6 tables and 12 references