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Administration / Child Welfare Systems - Results (114 Publications)

Title: Fiscal Issues in Child Welfare [Website].
Published: 2010
Available from: National Resource Center for Permanency and Family Connections
http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/socwork/nrcfcpp
Hunter College School of Social Work
129 East 79th Street
New York, NY 10065
Document available online at: http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/socwork/nrcfcpp/info_services/fiscal-issues-in-child-welfare.html
Abstract: This web page focuses on articles and studies that deal with financing of child welfare programs and the costs and benefits to society.

Title: Parents in Prison and Their Minor Children.
Author(s): Glaze, Lauren E.;Maruschak, Laura M.
Published: 2008
Available from: U.S. Dept. of Justice, Office of Justice Programs
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/
810 Seventh Street NW
Washington, DC 20531
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/pptmc.pdf
Abstract: Presents data from the 2004 Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities about inmates who were parents and their minor children. This report compares estimates of the number of incarcerated parents and their children under the age of 18, by gender, age, race, and Hispanic origin in state and federal prisons in 1991, 1997, 1999, 2004, and 2007. It presents the total number of children who were minors at some time during their parent's incarceration. The report describes selected background characteristics of parents in prisons, including marital status, citizenship, education, offense type, criminal history, employment, prior experiences of homelessness, drug and alcohol involvement, mental health, and physical and sexual abuse. It provides family background of inmate parents including household makeup, public assistance received by household, drug and alcohol use, and incarceration of family members. It includes information on the children's daily care, financial support, current caregivers, and frequency and type of contact with incarcerated parents. (Author abstract)

Title: Achieving Successful Outcomes for Children: A Rationale for the Service Array Process; and A Listing of the Capacities a Jurisdiction Needs to Flexibly Meet the Needs of Children and Families in the Child Welfare System.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement.
http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/
Muskie School-USM
P.O. Box 15010
400 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04112-5010
Document available online at: http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/servicarraydocs/Service%20Array%20-%20May%208,%202008/A%20%20Introduction%20and%20Overview%20Documents/A%203%20080428%20SA%20Rationale%20and%20Capacities.doc
Abstract: This paper explains the benefits of implementing a service array process to tailor child welfare services that build sustainable, wrap-around solutions from the strengths and needs of the family. It discusses the principles of effective systems of care and identifies the needed capacities that will be evaluated to help agencies, providers, and community stakeholders achieve these outcomes. Evaluation questions are provided for the following key safety, permanency, and well-being outcomes: make certain that children are protected from abuse and neglect; provide that children are safely maintained in their homes whenever possible and appropriate; make sure that children have permanency and stability in their living situations; provide that continuity of family relationships and connections is preserved for children; make sure that families have enhanced capacity to provide for their children's needs; provide that children receive appropriate services to meet their educational needs; and make sure that children receive adequate services to meet their physical and mental health needs.

Title: Disproportionality in Illinois Child Welfare.
Author(s): Rolock, Nancy.
Published: 2008
Available from: Children and Family Research Center
http://cfrcwww.social.uiuc.edu/welcome.htm
School of Social Work, UIUC
1203 W. Oregon
Urbana, IL 61801
Printable version (PDF): http://cfrcwww.social.uiuc.edu/pubs/Pdf.files/Disproportionality.pdf
Abstract: In this report we look at disproportionate representation in the child welfare system in Illinois for children of different races/ethnicities. Since geography (where a child lives) plays a significant factor in child welfare outcomes, and since there is wide variation in the racial composition of the state, we look at this issue by region within the state -- Cook County, Northern, Central and Southern regions. We employ an innovative method for examining racial over/under representation - a weighted risk ratio. When the racial composition varies from region to region, it makes it difficult to compare one region to the next. In short, this method takes into consideration the racial makeup of the state when looking at disparity within a region. In Illinois, the point of entry into foster care is the point at which the greatest disparity exists. Once in care, groups of children from different races/ethnicities have different likelihoods of continuity, stability, and permanence. In this report we examined disproportionality at these different stages and decision points to assess over and under representation in child welfare in Illinois. (Author abstract)

Title: Services for Youth Transitioning out of Foster Care: Preliminary Report.
Published: 2008
Available from: Washington State Institute for Public Policy
http://www.wsipp.wa.gov/
110 Fifth Avenue SE, Suite 214
P.O. Box 40999
Olympia, WA 98504-0999
Printable version (PDF): http://www.wsipp.wa.gov/rptfiles/08-09-3901.pdf
Abstract: An FY 09 proviso in the supplemental budget calls for the Institute to review state programs for youth transitioning out of foster care, and identify how well current services are meeting the needs of youth aging out of foster care to independence. In this preliminary report, we describe the activities the Institute is undertaking to conduct the analysis. The final report is due to be completed by December 31, 2008. (Author abstract)

Title: Drawing the Line between Public and Private Responsibility in Child Welfare: The Texas Debate.
Author(s): Hagert, Celia.;McCown, F. Scott.;Roper, Tiffany.;Castro, Eva De Luna.;Habibi, Shar.
Published: 2008
Available from: Center for Public Policy Priorities
http://www.cppp.org
900 Lydia Street
Austin, TX 78702
Printable version (PDF): http://www.cppp.org/files/4/CPSreportweb.pdf
Abstract: The report explores the line between public and private responsibility in child welfare. After examining child welfare systems in Kansas and Florida, the two states that have most completely privatized, CPPP makes recommendations for Texas. (Author abstract)

Title: Managing Psychotropic Medication Usage in a Child Welfare System.
Author(s): Lea, Tricia.
Published: 2008
Available from: American Public Human Services Association
http://www.aphsa.org/
810 First Street, N.E., Suite 500

Washington, DC 20002
Printable version (PDF): http://www.aphsa.org/home/doc/APHSA_NAPCWATestimony0520.pdf
Abstract: This written testimony was provided to the Subcommittee on Income Security and Family Support of the Ways and Means Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives. The testimony addresses the prescription of psychotropic medication for foster children. Background information is provided on a civil rights class action lawsuit filed in May 2000 by Children's Rights, Inc., on behalf of children who had experienced difficulties within the child welfare system. According to the complaint, Tennessee was not fulfilling its obligations to children in foster care and there was inappropriate use of psychotropic medications for children in care, inadequate monitoring of psychotropic medications, and the possible use of these medications as a means of control, punishment or discipline of children, or for the convenience of staff providing care to foster children. The Brian A. Settlement Agreement that was finalized in the lawsuit in July 2001 is explained, as well as reform efforts in the following areas: evaluation of current policies and practices, policy and practice development, tracking data trends, and updating monitoring guidelines and protocols. The testimony concludes that the Tennessee Department of Children's Services has made significant progress regarding psychotropic medication practices for children in custody, and that the department is working diligently to ensure that psychotropic medication is not used inappropriately or as a means of control, punishment, and discipline of children or for the convenience of staff. 1 chart.

Title: Harford County Family Recovery Court (FRC) Evaluation: Process, Outcome and Cost Report.
Author(s): Burrus, Scott W. M.;Worcel, Sonia D.;Aborn, Jennifer A.
Published: 2008
Available from: NPC Research
http://www.npcresearch.com
4380 SW Macadam Avenue, Suite 530
Portland, OR 97239-6408
Printable version (PDF): http://www.npcresearch.com/Files/Harford_County_FRC_Final_Report_0308.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses the findings of an evaluation of the Harford County Family Recovery Court (FRC), a court that serves families involved with child welfare due to substance abuse in Harford County, Maryland. This program aims to bring sobriety and quality of life to parents and increase the likelihood of reunification for families. The evaluation examined the historical and current context of the FRC (process study); the extent to which the FRC is meeting its stated goals and desired child welfare, treatment, and criminal justice outcomes (outcome study); and provided a cost analysis comparing the FRC to traditional case processing (cost study). Specifically, it compared child welfare, treatment, and criminal justice outcomes and cost savings for parents that received FRC services between April 2004 and April 2006 to comparable families that did not receive these services. Results from the evaluation indicate that: children in families served by the FRC spent 136 days in foster care as compared to 443 days for children in non-FRC served families; FRC families were twice as likely to be reunited than non-FRC families; FRC parents were almost 3 times as likely to complete treatment than non-FRC parents; of those parents who were arrested, FRC parents were arrested on average 1.5 times, whereas non-FRC parents were arrested on average 3.6 times; and of those parents who were arrested, FRC parents spent an average 26 days in jail, and non-FRC parents spent an average of 120 days in jail. Because FRC families utilized less foster care and were more likely to achieve reunification, FRC cases were less costly to the child welfare system than other cases. Moreover, as FRC parents spent less time in jail, the total cost savings per year of Harford County FRC operations was nearly $317,000, or approximately $12,000 per served family. 2 tables, 5 figures, and 4 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Inequalities in Infancy: Addressing the Overrepresentation of African American Infants in the Child Welfare System.
Author(s): Harden, Brenda Jones.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Zero to Three.
v. 28, 6, July 2008, p. 5-12
Available from: Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families
http://www.zerotothree.org
2000 M Street, NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20036
Abstract: African American infants have higher rates of child welfare system involvement than any other demographic group. They are overrepresented at every point on the child welfare continuum, from reporting, to substantiation, to foster care placement, to adoption. Racial disparities have also been noted in the services they receive. This article reviews the evidence on the experiences of African American children in the child welfare system, with a particular focus on infants. The author provides policy and practice recommendations to reduce racial disproportionality and to address the unique needs of African American infants. (Author abstract)

Title: Transitional Youth Services: Practice Implications from a Systematic Review.
Author(s): Naccarato, Toni.;DeLorenzo, Emily.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal
v. 25, 4, August 2008, p. 287-308
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: Independent living programs have emerged as the primary intervention to address the needs of foster youth transitioning out of care. Prior reviews of independent living programs have focused on implications for research and policy, but not on direct practice. In order to create effective independent living programs, direct service workers must be provided with concrete practice guidelines for providing effective independent living services. This article summarizes 19 studies on independent living and provides evidence-based implications for each in an effort to begin to fill the gap between research, policy and practice.

Title: Disseminating Evidence-Based Practice For Children and Adolescents: A Systems Approach to Enhancing Care.
Published: 2008
Available from: American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org
750 1st St., NE
Washington, DC 20002
Document available online at: http://www.apa.org/pi/cyf/evidence.html
Printable version (PDF): http://www.apa.org/pi/cyf/evidencerpt.pdf
Abstract: This report addresses the unique challenges for practitioners in developing, strengthening, and disseminating evidence-based practice (EBP) for children, adolescents, and their families. The report adheres to the 2005 APA policy statement on Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology, which calls for "the integration of the best available research with clinical expertise in the context of patient characteristics, culture, and preferences." The report covers: * a brief history and the key assumptions of EBP * developmental considerations for children and adolescents * the critical issues affecting the dissemination and implementation of EBP * an approach to practice that consists of observation, inquiry, and evaluation * recommendations for research, education, practice, and policy. (Author abstract)

Title: State Investment Fact Sheets.
Published: 2008
Available from: Casey Family Programs
http://www.casey.org
1300 Dexter Avenue North, Floor 3

Seattle, WA 98109-3542
Document available online at: http://www.casey.org/Resources/Publications/StateInvestmentFactSheets.htm
Abstract: These two-page fact sheets describe Casey's investments to serve children, strengthen families, and improve child welfare systems across the country. They also provide general data about the foster care population in each state. (Author abstract)

Title: Family Functioning Patterns as Predictors of Engagement: Which Families Participate in Services and Which Ones Do Not?
Author(s): Headman, Neil C.;Cornille, Thomas A.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of Family Social Work
v. 11, 2, 2008, p. 117-140
Available from: Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
325 Chestnut Street
Suite 800
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: The present study examines the relationship between specific areas of family functioning and family engagement in prevention services. A sample of 147 families who initiated youth-centered treatment services from a non-profit agency was selected. Statistical analysis was used to test for relationships between family scores on the Family Assessment Measure (version III, General Scale) and family levels of engagement in services. Results of binary logistic regression analysis indicated that individual and family characteristics are associated with family engagement in services. In addition to demographic variables of age and race, family patterns of denial made a significant individual contribution to the evaluated model. Implications for engaging families in prevention services are discussed and suggestions are made for future research. (Author abstract)

Title: State-by-State Costs of Child Poverty in the U.S.
Author(s): Pollard, Kelvin.
Published: 2008
Available from: Population Reference Bureau
http://www.prb.org/
1875 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 520
Washington, DC 20009-5728
Document available online at: http://www.prb.org/Articles/2008/childpovertyestimates.aspx
Abstract: This fact sheet presents a chart that illustrates the financial cost of having children grow up in poverty for each State. By taking the national estimate of child poverty costs and applying it to the estimated the number of poor children in each State in the 2006 American Community Survey, the chart estimates the amount that each State would save annually if child poverty were eliminated. In 14 States, child poverty yielded an annual cost of more than $10 billion. The most populous States tended to have the highest annual costs with California having the highest cost at $63.9 billion, followed by Texas at $57.5 billion, and New York at $33.4 billion. Even in the smallest state, Wyoming, growing up poor yielded an annual cost of about $500 million. 3 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Getting the Most Out of CSA: A Guide to Hampton, VA Best Practices.
Author(s): Steinfield, Frank R.
Published: 2008
Available from: Virginia Department of Social Services
http://www.dss.state.va.us/
7 North Eighth Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Printable version (PDF): http://vafamilyconnections.com/files/follow_progress/most_promising_practices/hampton_8_15_2008.pdf
Abstract: In 1992 the Virginia Legislature responded to growing financial pressure by passing the Comprehensive Services Act (CSA) -- a new state-wide approach for delivering social services to children and families by redeploying resources. The purpose of the act is to provide high quality, child centered, family focused, cost effective, community-based services to high-risk youth and their families. While working on state-wide reform in Virginia, the Annie E. Casey Foundation reviewed CSA data from localities across the state and discovered a set of positive results in the Hampton, VA CSA Office - highlighted by the city's success in building community-based services and reducing reliance on residential care. This Guide reviews Hampton Department of Social Services (HDSS) outcomes and outlines the steps taken to get there. It shows how HDSS changed its approach to child welfare by applying CSA to create a portfolio of services that support children and families and offers a qualitative overview of how Hampton developed best practices. (Author abstract modified)

Title: The One Hundred Billion Dollar Man : The Annual Public Costs of Father Absence.
Author(s): Nock, Steven L.;Einolf, Christopher J.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Fatherhood Initiative
http://www.fatherhood.org/
101 Lake Forest Boulevard
Suite 360
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Printable version (PDF): http://www.fatherhood.org/download_files.asp?DownloadID=51
Abstract: This study, the first of its kind, provides an estimate of the taxpayer costs of father absence. More precisely, it estimates the annual expenditures made by the federal government to support father-absent homes. These federal expenditures include those made on thirteen means-tested antipoverty programs and child support enforcement, and the total expenditures add up to a startling $99.8 billion. (Author abstract)

Title: The New Retrenchment: Social Welfare Spending, 1977-2006.
Author(s): Gais, Thomas.;Dadayan, Lucy.
Published: 2008
Available from: Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government
http://www.rockinst.org/
411 State Street
Albany, NY 12203-1003
Printable version (PDF): http://www.rockinst.org/pdf/workforce_welfare_and_social_services/2008-09-15-the_new_retrenchment_social_welfare_spending_1977-2006.pdf
Abstract: This report shows recent declines in social welfare spending -- including cash assistance, medical assistance, and social services -- as well as major shifts in the relationship between state fiscal capacity and social welfare spending.

Title: Cases of Child Neglect and Abuse at Private Residential Treatment Facilities: Hearing Before the Committee on Education and Labor, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Tenth Congress, First Session, Hearing Held in Washington, DC, October 10, 2007.
Published: 2008
Available from: U.S. Government Printing Office
http://www.gpoaccess.gov/
732 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20401
Printable version (PDF): http://purl.access.gpo.gov/GPO/LPS94235
Abstract: This report presents the proceedings from a U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and Labor hearing on cases of child neglect and abuse at private residential treatment facilities held on October 10, 2007. Statements of Representative George Miller, Representative Jason Altmire, Representative Howard (Buck) McKeon are presented, as well as testimony and prepared statements from the American Bar Association, the Alliance for the Safe, Therapeutic, and Appropriate Use of Residential Treatment (ASTART), the Forensic Audits and Special Investigations Unit of the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, and parents of children and youth who have died in the care of private residential treatment facilities. A statement is also included from Dr. Allison Pinto, a research psychologist and assistant research professor from Louis de la Parte Florida Medical Health Institute, University of South Florida. The hearing report includes several letters from families with youth who have benefited from private residential treatment facilities.

Title: State Strategies to Reduce Child and Family Poverty.
Published: 2008
Available from: NGA Center for Best Practices
http://www.nga.org/portal/site/nga/menuitem.50aeae5ff70b817ae8ebb856a11010a0/
444 North Capitol Street, Suite 267
Washington, DC 20001-1512
Printable version (PDF): http://www.nga.org/Files/pdf/0806POVERTYBRIEF.PDF
Abstract: This issue brief discusses the incidence of children and families living in extreme poverty in the United States, the impact of poverty and income inequality on children, and State policy and program options to reduce poverty. Strategies are described that can help reduce the negative consequences of poverty for children and can result in opportunities for families to achieve economic success. The strategies include: expand safety-net opportunities, such as unemployment insurance, for families in crisis; increase the returns on work by, for example, creating or expanding State earned income tax credits; promote savings and asset accumulation by connecting families to banking opportunities, savings accounts, and financial literacy programs; improve the consumer environment in poor neighborhoods by enacting anti-predatory legislation and expanding consumer options; increase access to education and training by, for example, expanding financial aid for working adults; improve access to work supports by coordinating policies for benefit programs and expanding benefits when feasible; invest in young children through, for example, home visiting initiatives and prekindergarten programs; and strengthen family relationships through teen pregnancy prevention, responsible fatherhood, and marriage and relationship education programs. Examples of State programs that are employing each of these options are provided. 58 references.

Title: Child Maltreatment 2006: Summary of Key Findings
Published: 2008
Available from: Child Welfare Information Gateway
http://www.childwelfare.gov
Children's Bureau/ACYF
1250 Maryland Avenue, SW
Eighth Floor
Washington, DC 20024
Document available online at: http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/canstats.cfm
Printable version (PDF): http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/canstats.pdf
Abstract: This factsheet presents excerpts from Child Maltreatment 2006, a publication that provides child abuse statistics submitted by States to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System. Topics include reports of child abuse and neglect, victims of maltreatment, types of abuse, perpetrators, fatalities, and services provided to children and families.

Title: Ethical Considerations. (Chapter 3 in Research Methods in Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Baker, Amy J.L.;Charvat, Benjamin S.
Published: 2008
Available from: Columbia University Press
http://cup.columbia.edu/
Order Department
136 S. Broadway
Irvington, NY 10533
Abstract: This chapter provides a brief history of ethics in human subjects research, explains the role of the Institutional Review Board in reviewing all child welfare agency-based research, and discusses ethical considerations in problem formation, selecting research partners from inside and outside the agency, sampling, withholding treatment, informed consent, consent and assent with children, measurement, data collection, data analysis, writing the report, and disseminating the findings.

Title: Agency-Based Program Evaluation. (Chapter 17 in Research Methods in Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Baker, Amy J.L.;Charvat, Benjamin S.
Published: 2008
Available from: Columbia University Press
http://cup.columbia.edu/
Order Department
136 S. Broadway
Irvington, NY 10533
Abstract: Following a brief literature review, this chapter discusses considerations when deciding to conduct a program evaluation, the differences between formative and summative evaluations, and the differences between prospective or retrospective evaluations. Factors necessary for prospective summative evaluations, activities for conducting a prospective summative program evaluations, and issues to consider when conducting a prospective formative program evaluation are also reviewed. 3 figures.

Title: Getting Health Care to Abused Kids From Meth Households Prevents Crime [Minnesota].
Published: 2008
Available from: Fight Crime: Invest in Kids
http://www.fightcrime.org/
1212 New York Ave. NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005
Printable version (PDF): http://www.fightcrime.org/reports/MN%20SCHIP.pdf
Abstract: This research brief explains the need to expand the federal- and State-funded State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) to meet the needs of abused children from households with methamphetamine use in Minnesota. It notes that too many eligible children from low-income working families who need health care are not served under SCHIP, and that SCHIP's mental health coverage is often less than its physical health coverage. Information is provided on the use of methamphetamine in Minnesota and its impact on children, the inadequate funding of SCHIP, and the need for screening to help identify who needs SCHIP mental health services. Successful intensive family therapies that deal with aggression in children and youth are then described and include: The Incredible Years, Functional Family Therapy, Multisystemic Therapy, and Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care. A chart shows how these programs actually reduce costs in the long run. The brief concludes that the intensive family therapies for troubled teens reduce repeat crimes so much that they produce average net savings of $18,000 to over $75,000 for each juvenile served. It calls on the Minnesota members of Congress to support SCHIP legislation with expansion to cover more children and improvements in SCHIP that will bring mental health coverage in line with physical health coverage. 24 references.

Title: Huge Racial Disparities Found in Maryland Child Welfare: Foster Care Gap Exceeds National Average by More than 50 Percent.
Published: 2008
Available from: Advocates for Children and Youth (ACY)
http://www.acy.org/
8 Market Place, 5th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202-4034
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acy.org/upimages/Child_Welfare_Disparities.pdf
Abstract: African-American children in Maryland are in out-of-home placement at 5.3 times the rate of white children, more than 50 percent higher than the national gap. African-American children are being removed from their homes at 3.5 times the rate of white children. These disparities exist despite no evidence of any difference in actual maltreatment rates. Solutions include: Alternative Response; Cultural Competency; and Family Team Decision Making. (Author abstract)

Title: The Effectiveness of Interventions to Reduce Psychological Harm from Traumatic Events Among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review.
Author(s): Wethington, Holly R.;Hahn, Robert A.;Fuqua-Whitley, Dawna S.;Sipe, Theresa Ann.;Crosby, Alex E.;Johnson, Robert L.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: American Journal of Preventive Medicine
v. 35, 3, September 2008, p. 287-313
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Children and adolescents in the U.S. and worldwide are commonly exposed to traumatic events, yet practitioners treating these young people to reduce subsequent psychological harm may not be aware of - or use - interventions based on the best available evidence. This systematic review evaluated interventions commonly used to reduce psychological harm among children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events. Guide to Community Preventive Services (Community Guide) criteria were used to assess study design and execution. Meta-analyses were conducted, stratifying by traumatic exposures. Evaluated interventions were conducted in high-income economies, published up to March 2007. Subjects in studies were ≤21 years of age, exposed to individual/mass, intentional/unintentional, or manmade/natural traumatic events. The seven evaluated interventions were individual cognitive-behavioral therapy, group cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, art therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and pharmacologic therapy for symptomatic children and adolescents, and psychological debriefing, regardless of symptoms. The main outcome measures were indices of depressive disorders, anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder, internalizing and externalizing disorders, and suicidal behavior. Strong evidence (according to Community Guide rules) showed that individual and group cognitive-behavioral therapy can decrease psychological harm among symptomatic children and adolescents exposed to trauma. Evidence was insufficient to determine the effectiveness of play therapy, art therapy, pharmacologic therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or psychological debriefing in reducing psychological harm. Personnel treating children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events should use interventions for which evidence of effectiveness is available, such as individual and group cognitive-behavior therapy. Interventions should be adapted for use in diverse populations and settings. Research should be pursued on the effectiveness of interventions for which evidence is currently insufficient. (Author abstract)

Title: Caseworker Assessments of Risk for Recurrent Maltreatment: Association with Case-Specific Risk Factors and Re-Reports.
Author(s): Dorsey, Shannon.;Mustillo, Sarah A.;Farmer, Elizabeth M.Z.;Elbogen, Eric.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, March 2008, p. 377-391
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: This article focuses on caseworkers? assessments of risk of maltreatment recurrence among families in contact with social services. Specifically, the article has two primary goals: (1) to examine the association between caseworkers? risk assessments and demographic, child, parent and family-level risk factors; and (2) to examine agreement between caseworkers? risk assessments and any subsequent report, or reports, of maltreatment. Method: Data are from the baseline, 12-month, and 18-month assessments of the National Survey for Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW), a nationally representative sample of youth and families who were the subjects of allegations of maltreatment investigated by child welfare agencies. The sample consisted of a subset of NSCAW participants: cases with a report of child physical abuse or neglect who were not placed in out-of-home care (N = 2,139). Results Analyses indicated that parent-level risk factors and a prior report of maltreatment were most strongly associated with caseworkers? assessments of risk for both physical abuse and neglect cases. A smaller set of factors, which varied by the type of maltreatment, were associated with a subsequent report of maltreatment. Despite some overlap in correlates of risk assessment and subsequent reports, analyses indicated that agreement between caseworkers? assessments of risk and re-reports was low. Conclusions Findings suggest that although caseworkers? assessments were associated with a limited set of risk factors from the literature, few of these factors also were associated with a recurrent report of maltreatment. Correspondence between caseworkers? assessments of risk and a subsequent report of maltreatment was low, suggesting that considerable work may be needed to improve accuracy and identification of cases most at risk. Practice implications This study provides information to assist caseworkers, administrators, and policymakers in thinking critically about risk assessment policies and procedures. Although caseworkers? assessments of risk were associated with some of the empirical predictors of recurrent maltreatment, their assessments were only slightly better than guessing. Agreement between caseworkers? risk assessments and actual subsequent reports was better for low-risk cases, but primarily because the majority of cases did not have a subsequent report during the study period. Clearly, considerable improvement in risk assessment is needed so that at-risk families can be better identified and the limited services available can be directed toward those most in need. (Author abstract)

Title: Sexually Assaulted Children: National Estimates and Characteristics.
Author(s): Finkelhor, David.;Hammer, Heather.;Sedlak, Andrea J.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS)
http://www.ncjrs.org
P.O. Box 6000
Rockville, MD 20849-6000
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/214383.pdf
Abstract: This Bulletin, the seventh in the NISMART--2 series, addresses a special topic: sexually assaulted children. The Bulletin provides information on the estimated number and characteristics of children who were sexually assaulted in the United States in 1999, based on NISMART--2 interviews with victims and their families. The estimates are derived from two components of the Second National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway, and Thrownaway Children (NISMART--2): the National Household Survey of Adult Caretakers and the National Household Survey of Youth. These surveys were conducted during 1999 and reflect a 12-month period. Because the vast majority of cases reported were concentrated in 1999, the annual period referred to in the Bulletin is 1999. (Author abstract)

Title: Evaluating Children's Advocacy Centers' Response to Child Sexual Abuse.
Author(s): Cross, Theodore P.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Juvenile Justice Bulletin
August, August 2008, p. 1-12
Available from: United States Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.org
810 Seventh Street NW.
Washington, DC 20531
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/218530.pdf
Abstract: Describes an evaluation of the effectiveness of four prominent Children's Advocacy Centers and comparison communities in coordinating child abuse investigations and providing victim services. The Bulletin examines the role these centers play in child abuse investigations and suggests ways that the centers could improve services in the future. (Author abstract)

Title: Expanding Resources for Waiting Children II: Eliminating Legal and Practice Barriers to Gay and Lesbian Adoption from Foster Care.
Author(s): Howard, Jeanne.;Freundlich, Madelyn.
Published: 2008
Available from: Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute
http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/
525 Broadway, 6th floor
New York, NY 10012
Document available online at: http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/research/2008_09_expand_resources.php
Printable version (PDF): http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/publications/2008_09_Expanding_Resources_Legal.pdf
Abstract: This report builds on the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute's 2006 Policy & Practice Perspective, Expanding Resources for Waiting Children: Is Adoption by Gays and Lesbians Part of the Answer? and, like that initial paper, focuses on meeting the needs of waiting children. It provides an overview of current law and policy, and offers recommendations for expanding the pool of qualified adoptive families for these children by removing legal and practice barriers to gay and lesbian adoption. (Author abstract)

Title: Toward a Brighter Future: An Essential Agenda for America's Young People.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Collaboration for Youth
http://www.nassembly.org/ncy/
1319 F Street, NW
Suite 402
Washington, DC 20004
Printable version (PDF): http://www.juvjustice.org/media/resources/public/resource_228.pdf
Abstract: This document contains an overarching set of recommendations for federal policy changes and investments designed to move this nation toward a brighter future and invest in the needs of our children and youth. The agenda incorporates all aspects of child development and focuses on three core elements that form a unifying strategy for how the federal government works on issues facing young people. These three core elements are: A focus on the whole child; A fundamental premise that all young people should be treated with dignity and equality; and A positive youth development approach that builds not from the deficits in young people's lives, but from assets. (Author abstract)

Title: Behavior Management Training for the Treatment of Reactive Attachment Disorder.
Author(s): Buckner, Julia D.;Lopez, Cristina.;Dunkel, Stephanie.;Joiner, Thomas E., Jr.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Maltreatment
v. 13, 3, August 2008, p. 289-297
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Abstract: Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a childhood disorder characterized by extremely inappropriate social relating across a variety of interactions that must be present by age 5. Although children diagnosed with RAD appear to demonstrate significantly more behavioral problems and psychosocial difficulties than children without RAD, there have been few examinations of empirically informed treatments for this disorder. One avenue that may be particularly promising is the use of treatments that have been successfully used to decrease similar problematic behaviors in children. The present case study outlines the use of behavior management training (BMT) in the treatment of a 7-year-old female child with RAD. Given the marked reduction in problematic behaviors exhibited by this child as a result of a typical course of BMT, it is recommended that randomized clinical trials be conducted to test the efficacy of BMT for RAD. (Author abstract)

Title: Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act 2008 Resources.
Published: 2008
Available from: Center for Law and Social Policy
http://www.clasp.org
1015 15th Street NW, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20005
Document available online at: http://www.clasp.org/publications/fctsaiaact2008resources.htm
Abstract: The Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act (H.R. 6893) will help hundreds of thousands of children and youth in foster care by promoting permanent families for them through relative guardianship and adoption and improving education and health care. Additionally, it will extend federal support for youth to age 21. H.R. 6893 also will offer for the first time many American Indian children important federal protections and support. H.R. 6893 has bipartisan support and is fully paid for. This bill resolves differences between the House-passed Fostering Connections to Success Act (H.R. 6307) and the Senate Finance Committee-approved Chairman's Mark of S. 3038, the Improved Adoption Incentives and Relative Guardianship Support Act. H.R. 6893 was unanimously passed by the House on suspension of the rules on September 17, 2008 and now awaits action in the Senate. The resources on this web page detail the provisions of this important legislation. (Author abstract)

Title: Santa Clara County: Disproportionality in Child Welfare: 2008 Plan.
Published: 2008
Available from: Santa Clara County Social Services Agency, Department of Family and Children's Services
http://www.sccgov.org/
373 W. Julian Street
San Jose, CA 95110-2335
Printable version (PDF): http://www.sccgov.org/SCC/docs/SCC%20Public%20Portal/keyboard%20agenda/Committee%20Agenda/2008/February%2019,%202008/TMPKeyboard202214171.pdf
Abstract: This document describes the activities and accomplishments of Santa Clara County, California, in addressing racial disparities in child welfare. It reviews progress in the following areas: referral screening, joint response, emergency response and dependency investigation, reunification services, placement, reunification, permanency, staff activities, management oversight, and agency advocacy. The report concludes that Fiscal Year data from July 2006 to July 2007 suggests there is still a very high level of ethnic disproportionality in the child welfare system. Goals for 2008 are discussed. 2 references.

Title: Big Ideas for Children: Investing in Our Nation's Future.
Published: 2008
Available from: First Focus
http://www.firstfocus.net/
1110 Vermont Ave, NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20005
Printable version (PDF): http://www.firstfocus.net/Download/BigIdeas.pdf
Abstract: First Focus has commissioned this book to illustrate the universal recognition among thought leaders that children are not a major priority at the federal level, and that creative solutions are needed to once again increase the federal investment in children. The proposals included encompass various issue areas, including poverty, child health, early childhood, education, home and community, child welfare, and child safety. (Author abstract)

Title: Children in Immigrant Families: Key to America's Future (p. 159-182 of Big Ideas for Children: Investing in Our Nation's Future),
Author(s): Hernandez, Donald J.
Published: 2008
Available from: First Focus
http://www.firstfocus.net/
1110 Vermont Ave, NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20005
Printable version (PDF): http://www.firstfocus.net/Download/16-Hernandez.pdf
Abstract: This report first portrays the lives of children with immigrant parents mainly with data from Census 2000, and then highlights needed policy initiatives in the areas of education, health care, economic resources, and access to public benefits, language, and enforcement of immigration laws. (Author abstract)

Title: California: 2020 Data Brief.
Published: 2008
Available from: Casey Family Programs
http://www.casey.org
1300 Dexter Avenue North, Floor 3

Seattle, WA 98109-3542
Printable version (PDF): http://www.casey.org/NR/rdonlyres/1A3D4787-3EF1-44F4-97B5-5F169BF15733/748/CA_brief.pdf
Abstract: Casey Family Programs' 2020 Data Briefs highlight positive, long-term trends associated with each state's progress towards achieving the goals Casey Family Programs has articulated as a part of its 2020 Strategy. This brief explains how the Breakthrough Series Collaborative on Disproportionality in California might affect the number of children of color in the state's foster care system. (Author abstract)

Title: Increasing Abused Children's Access to Evidence-Based Treatment: Diffusion via Parents as Consumers.
Author(s): Gully, Kevin J.;Price, Brittany L.;Johnson, Marilyn K.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Maltreatment
v. 13, 3, August 2008, p. 280-288
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Abstract: This investigation evaluated an experimental protocol employed by nurses with parents to increase access to evidence-based mental health treatment for children who are suspected victims of abuse. The protocol was compared with typical services during forensic medical examinations, first in a quasi-experimental design, then as a randomized controlled trial. In both studies, the protocol produced a significant increase in parental reports of having discussed evidence-based treatment during a mental health appointment within 1 month after the forensic medical examination. Likewise, both studies showed that the protocol produced a significant increase in parent-reported satisfaction with the forensic medical examination. Similarly, nurses viewed the protocol favorably. These findings suggest that this approach may be sustainable as a standard component of forensic medical examinations for children who are suspected victims of abuse. (Author abstract)

Title: Innovations in Disaster Mental Health: Psychological First Aid.
Author(s): Vernberg, Eric M.;Steinberg, Alan M.;Jacobs, Anne K.;Brymer, Melissa J.;Watson, Patricia J.;Osofsky, Joy D.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Professional Psychology: Research and Practice
v. 39, 4, August 2008, p. 381-388
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Professional psychologists are called upon to deal with a broad array of crises and traumatic events. However, training and expertise in crisis response varies widely among practitioners, and there has been considerable controversy about the value of widely disseminated mental health crisis intervention protocols that include "debriefing" as an essential feature. This article gives an overview of the developmental process, guiding principles, and core actions of the Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide (PFA Guide), which provides guidance for practitioners in responding to immediate mental health needs of children, adults, and families who have recently experienced a disaster or terrorist event. Issues in training, provider self-care, and evaluation research are also presented. The PFA Guide presents approaches thought to be most consistently supported by current research and practice so that they can be taught, used, and evaluated in field settings. Although we expect further refinement as more systematic research becomes available, the PFA Guide represents a sustained collaborative effort to define current evidence-informed best practices that can be utilized now by practitioners involved in disaster mental health responses. (Author abstract)

Title: A Victim-Centered Approach to Crimes Against American Indian and Alaska Native Children: Resource Guide and Workbook for Drafting New or Amended Tribal Laws on Crimes Against Children.
Author(s): Sekaquaptewa, Pat.;Bubar, Roe.;Cook, JoAnne.
Published: 2008
Available from: Tribal Court Clearinghouse
http://www.tribal-institute.org/
Printable version (PDF): http://www.tribal-institute.org/download/CCC_February_2009.pdf
Abstract: This guide has been developed by the Tribal Law and Policy Institute (TLPI) under a Children's Justice Act Partnerships for Indian Communities training and technical assistance grant. Specifically it has been developed to provide assistance to tribes and tribal organizations that have also received Children's Justice Act Partnerships for Indian Communities grants. Tribes frequently request assistance in developing and/or updating their laws to address victimization of tribal children. TLPI has developed this Resource Guide and Workbook to meet the identified need. This project was conceived in 2001 under the guidance of an Advisory Committee of experts in the tribal justice field, those working with Native child abuse and child victimization issues, and with tribal child and family services providers. The Resource Guide and Workbook provide illustrative examples, narrative, and discussion questions. The discussion questions direct users through a tailoring process that will assure that the resulting draft statutory provisions reflect the needs and values of the tribal community that the targeted law serves. (Author abstract)

Title: From Science to Policy to Practice: The Evolving Implementation of Federally Mandated Referrals From Child Welfare to Part C Early Intervention.
Author(s): Derrington, Taletha M.;Lippitt, John A.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Zero to Three.
v. 28, 6, July 2008, p. 18-24
Available from: Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families
http://www.zerotothree.org
2000 M Street, NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20036
Abstract: Scientifically based federal legislation now requires states to develop and implement policies for referring children under age 3 years with substantiated cases of abuse or neglect to state Early Intervention systems. This legislation is a critical first step, but further attention is needed to translate it into scientifically based practice. This article describes initial state responses and the current status of state referral policies. The authors discuss ongoing challenges in system capacity, funding, policy development, and engaging families, and they provide promising strategies to address these issues. (Author abstract)

Title: Designing a Marriage Education Demonstration and Evaluation for Low-Income Married Couples.
Author(s): Knox, Virginia.;Fein, David.
Published: 2008
Available from: ACF Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE)
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W.
Washington, DC 20447
Document available online at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/strengthen/support_hlthymarr/reports/design_marr/design_marr_title.html
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/strengthen/support_hlthymarr/reports/design_marr/designing_marr.pdf
Abstract:

In recent decades, there has been a widening gap between higher rates of marital instability for economically disadvantaged couples and lower rates for nondisadvantaged couples. In addition, out-of-wedlock birth rates have risen, while evidence has grown that children fare better, on average, when raised by both of their parents in stable low-conflict households. All of these trends were important rationales for the development of a federal Healthy Marriage Initiative (HMI) within the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Through grants to a range of state and local agencies, the HMI emphasizes provision of marriage education, a voluntary preventive service aimed at providing interested couples with skills and information that may help them to develop and sustain successful marriages and relationships.

In this working paper, the authors introduce the Supporting Healthy Marriage (SHM) evaluation -- the first large-scale, multisite experiment that tests marriage education programs for low-income married couples with children. The SHM conceptual framework recognizes multiple sources of relationship strength and weakness, and the project's program model has followed this framework closely in adapting the content and delivery of marriage education services for low-income married parents. Eight sites (with some sites spanning multiple organizations) are operating SHM programs around the country. SHM is testing a relatively intensive and comprehensive form of marriage education designed specifically for low-income families. Its year-long program model packages a series of marriage education workshops with additional family support, including case management, supportive services, and referrals to outside services as needed. The evaluation includes two interrelated substudies -- one focusing on sites' experiences in implementing the SHM model and the other measuring program impacts on marital quality and stability, child well-being, and a range of other outcomes. (Author abstract modified)

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