An Ecological Approach to Child Abuse and Social Protection System Analysis of Trauma Effects and İnternational Practices

Abstract

This article examines child welfare with a specific focus on child abuse and neglect. In the modern era, negligence and exploitation of children remain pressing issues at both national and international levels. From an ecological perspective, children’s welfare is shaped by individual, family, and environmental factors, while the increase in risk conditions, the inadequacy of social services, and the long-term impact of trauma highlight the critical role of social work. International practice (Collins & Wright, 2022; Aurino & Giunti, 2022) shows that transforming child protection and social security systems and applying ecological and trauma-informed approaches are essential. This research analyses child abuse and neglect within ecological system theory, evaluates the effectiveness of social protection mechanisms, and, through a comparative review of international evidence (Türkkan, Odacı, & Bülbül, 2021; Akçe & Doğan, 2020; Çavuş & Çalış, 2021; Özkan, 2022), identifies factors affecting children’s welfare at the micro, meso, and macro levels. The study combines theoretical and practical perspectives, aiming to build systematic knowledge about the multi-layered determinants of child welfare and to support the improvement of social protection systems, the strengthening of children’s rights, and the development of trauma-informed interventions. Overall, the findings underline that ensuring social welfare is both a primary need for children and a key factor in preventing abuse and responding effectively when it occurs.