Child Protection Informatics: A Scoping Review

Child protection informatics (CPI) is critical in our increasingly digitalized society and social services. This scoping review, following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, mapped CPI research from the last decade within institutional child protection systems. Seven databases were searched for peer-reviewed English articles, identifying 80 studies for analysis using a Health and Human Services Informatics (HHSI) paradigm. Research predominantly focused on the Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) (n = 34), encompassing diverse applications from e-services to AI-driven tools. Other HHSI research areas included Steering and Organizing of Information Management in Work Processes (n = 17), Knowledge Management and Informatics Competencies (n = 16), and Data Models and Structures (n = 13). The findings highlight the field’s active engagement with technological advancements, particularly in ICT. However, the review also identifies a need for deeper inquiry into foundational CPI principles and broader competency development to enhance the effective and ethical use of information and technology in safeguarding vulnerable children.