Predictors of Mental Health and Developmental Service Utilization Among Children Age Birth to 5 Years in Child Welfare: A Systematic Review

Children from age birth to 5 years in the child welfare system who experience trauma are at risk for mental health problems and developmental delays but often do not receive the service they need. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify research studies examining the prevalence of mental health and developmental needs among these children and the factors predicting mental health and developmental service use. Of the 1,147 studies screened, 38 were retained for full review with eight selected for systematic review. The results suggest that mental health need, developmental need, and child welfare placement are significant predictors of mental health and developmental service use. This study will contribute to developing implications for child welfare practice and research for early childhood development.