The influence of racial perception on the assessment and intention to report child neglect in Flanders, France and Italy

Background Racially biased assessment and reporting of child abuse and neglect is a major concern. The Theory of Planned behavior states that intention to report is determined by attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavior control regarding reporting. Objective The study examined racial bias as a factor influencing assessment and intention to report a case of neglect by home visiting program workers (HVPW) of Flanders, France and Italy. It was also investigated if attitudes, subjective norms and behavior control regarding reporting was associated with intention to report. Participants and setting 748 HVPWs from Flanders, France and Italy filled in the online questionnaire. Methods A visual vignette was used, showing pictures of a neglectful situation that randomly varied with respect to whether the shown child was white or Roma. Participants indicated if they assessed the situation as neglect and would report the case. Associations of attitudes, social norms and behavior control regarding reporting with the intention to report were examined. Results Little evidence was found for racial bias. However, Flanders, Italy and France differed in the assessment. Flemish HVPWs considered the case less indicative of neglect. Attitudes and social pressure to report were associated with the intention to report. Conclusions Although little evidence was found for racial bias in a case of neglect by HVPWs, country of residence influenced assessment and intention to report. Attitudes and social norms toward reporting were associated with the intention to report. Implementing strategies promoting positive attitudes and social norms are important.