CA/N or Child Abuse/Neglect: This abbreviation is commonly used throughout Missouri DSS/Children’s Division paperwork.

Alleged Victim Child (AVC): The child whom the report alleges may have been abused or neglected.

Alleged Perpetrator (AP): The person alleged to have caused the abuse or neglect. Being identified as the AP does not mean DSS has determined that the person committed abuse.

Hotline Report / CA/N Report: The initial report of suspected child abuse or neglect made to the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.

Investigation: The evidence-gathering process used by Children’s Division to determine whether abuse or neglect occurred and whether there is sufficient evidence to make a finding against an alleged perpetrator.

Family Assessment: A different type of Children’s Division response that generally focuses on child safety, family needs, risk factors, and services rather than determining whether a particular person committed abuse or neglect.

Collateral Contact: A person outside the immediate investigation who may have relevant information, such as a doctor, teacher, daycare provider, relative, counselor, or other witness.

SAFE-CARE: Missouri’s network of specially trained medical professionals who evaluate children when physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect is suspected.

MDT or Multidisciplinary Team: Professionals from different disciplines or agencies who may work together regarding a child-abuse investigation.

CAC or Child Advocacy Center: A specialized setting where children may receive forensic interviews, advocacy, medical services, or other services related to an abuse investigation.

FACES: Children’s Division’s case-management system where workers document contacts, evidence, investigative information, and case activity.

CPS-1:Documentation used by Children’s Division for the investigation and its conclusions.:

POE / Preponderance of Evidence: The evidence standard used for certain Children's Division findings. It generally means the evidence supporting the finding has greater weight and is more convincing than the evidence against it.

Preliminary POE Finding: Children’s Division has initially determined that the evidence establishes abuse or neglect by a preponderance of the evidence. This is important because the alleged perpetrator may have review or appeal rights before the matter becomes final.

Unsubstantiated: Children’s Division determines there is insufficient evidence to conclude that the alleged child abuse or neglect occurred.

Unsubstantiated – Preventive Services Indicated (PSI): There is insufficient evidence to substantiate abuse or neglect, but Children’s Division identifies risk factors or concerns for which preventive services may be appropriate.

Child Abuse/Neglect Present – Perpetrator Unidentified: Children’s Division determines that abuse or neglect occurred but cannot determine who was responsible.

Central Registry: Missouri’s registry involving individuals with qualifying final findings or adjudications of child abuse or neglect. A preliminary allegation or investigation alone does not mean someone is automatically on the Central Registry.

CANRB or Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board: Part of Missouri’s process for reviewing/challenging certain Children’s Division findings.

CS-21Investigation Disposition Letter: The written notice informing relevant parties of the outcome of an investigation.

CS-24Description of the Investigation Process: A Children’s Division document explaining the investigation process and possible outcomes.

CS-132Know Your Rights: A document provided to families/alleged perpetrators explaining important rights during Children’s Division involvement. 

Safety Plan / Immediate Safety Intervention Plan: A plan developed when Children’s Division identifies an immediate safety concern and believes specific actions are necessary to keep the child safe.

FST or Family Support Team: A meeting involving the family and other appropriate individuals to discuss the child, family needs, safety, services, placement, or case planning.

Juvenile Officer (JO):A court-related official who may become involved when Children's Division believes court intervention is necessary to protect a child.

Protective Custody: A situation in which a child is taken into temporary protective custody because authorities believe the child cannot safely remain in the current situation.

Due Process: The legal protections provided to a person accused of abuse or neglect, including notice and opportunity.