Abstract
The study sought to examine different CPS social worker positions and their experiences of secondary traumatic stress (STS) and burnout. This researcher hypothesized emergency response (ER) CPS social workers would experience more STS and burnout compared to other types of CPS social workers. The quantitative study utilized the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) Scale and surveys were created through Qualtrics which were then distributed online to participating county agencies. Data collection took place over a four-month period from November 2019 to February 2020. Total sample size for analysis is 142. Descriptive statistics and independent samples t-tests were used in analyzing the data. Independent sample t-tests revealed no significant findings. Descriptive statistics revealed no significant differences between mean scores of variables. No statistical significance was found, and the study failed to reject the null hypothesis. Continued research into STS and burnout, effective self-care strategies, and supportive work environments for social workers can help in the identification and mitigation of risk factors, supporting worker retention and the child welfare field.