Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What does the acronym CAC stand for in child protection practice?

1. Child Advocacy Center

2. Child Assessment Commission

3. Care and Advocacy Council

4. Child Assistance Center

The correct answer is: Child Advocacy Center

The acronym CAC stands for Child Advocacy Center, which plays a crucial role in child protection practice. These centers are designed to provide a child-friendly environment where children can feel safe and supported while undergoing interviews and assessments related to allegations of abuse. They facilitate a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various professionals such as social workers, law enforcement, medical staff, and mental health experts to work collaboratively in a child's best interests. The goal is to minimize the trauma experienced by the child during the investigative process and ensure that they receive the necessary support and services promptly. Other options, while they contain terms relevant to child welfare, do not accurately represent the widely recognized designation of CAC within the field. This highlights the importance of understanding the specific terminology used in child protection contexts to facilitate communication among professionals and streamline intervention strategies.