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Safety - Results (82 Publications)

Title: Behavioral Parent Training in Child Welfare: Maintenance and Booster Training.
Author(s): Van Camp, Carole M.;Montgomery, Jan L.;Vollmer, Timothy R.;Kosarek, Judith A.;Happe, Shawn.;Burgos, Vanessa.;Manzolillo, Anthony.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Research on social work practice
v. 18, 5, September 2008, p. 392-400
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Document available online at: http://rsw.sagepub.com/content/vol18/issue5/
Abstract: Previous research has demonstrated the efficacy of a 30-hr behavioral parent training program at increasing skill accuracy. However, it remains unknown whether skills acquisitions are maintained on a long-term basis. Few studies have evaluated the maintenance of skills learned during behavioral parent training for foster parents. The purpose of this study is twofold: (a) to assess skill maintenance 8 to 35.5 months following the initial 30-hr training program and (b) to evaluate whether a 6-hr booster training would raise caregivers' skill performance to levels similar to those observed during posttests of the initial training. Overall results show partial maintenance of skills over time and positive effects of booster training for skills that had not been maintained. Results also show variability in individual participant and individual skill scores during various phases of the analysis, suggesting idiosyncratic differences with regard to initial training, maintenance, and booster training. (Author abstract)

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: When Child Sexual Abuse Is a Danger.
Published: 2008
Available from: Action for Child Protection
http://www.actionchildprotection.org/
2101 Sardis Road North, Suite 204
Charlotte, NC 28227
Printable version (PDF): http://www.actionchildprotection.org/PDF/June%20When%20Sexual%20Abuse%20Is%20a%20Danger.pdf
Abstract: This brief considers when child sexual abuse constitutes a danger to a child. It discusses how child sexual abuse is different than other types of maltreatment, the taboo associated with child sexual abuse (CSA), and strategies case workers can use to balance and reconcile an amorphous perception of CSA as a threat to child safety with an informed, discriminating examination of CSA as a threat to child safety. Different types of CSA are described and the need to consider the progression of the sexual abuse in determining threats to safety is stressed. Finally, criteria is reviewed when assessing whether the CSA meets the definition of a present danger or an imminent danger, including the five standards of the safety threshold criteria required for determining impending danger.

Title: A Review of Research on Women's Use of Violence With Male Intimate Partners.
Author(s): Swan, Suzanne C.;Gambone, Laura J.;Caldwell, Jennifer E.;Sullivan, Tami P.;Snow, David L.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims.
v. 23, 3, 2008, p. 301-314
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: This article provides a review of research literature on women who use violence with intimate partners. The central purpose is to inform service providers in the military and civilian communities who work with domestically violent women. The major points of this review are as follows: (a) women's violence usually occurs in the context of violence against them by their male partners; (b) in general, women and men perpetrate equivalent levels of physical and psychological aggression, but evidence suggests that men perpetrate sexual abuse, coercive control, and stalking more frequently than women and that women also are much more frequently injured during domestic violence incidents; (c) women and men are equally likely to initiate physical violence in relationships involving less serious "situational couple violence," and in relationships in which serious and very violent "intimate terrorism" occurs, men are much more likely to be perpetrators and women victims; (d) women's physical violence is more likely than men's violence to be motivated by self-defense and fear, whereas men's physical violence is more likely than women's to be driven by control motives; (e) studies of couples in mutually violent relationships find more negative effects for women than for men; and (f) because of the many differences in behaviors and motivations between women's and men's violence, interventions based on male models of partner violence are likely not effective for many women. (Author abstract)

Title: When Living Conditions Seriously Endanger a Child's Physical Health.
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
Printable version (PDF): http://www.actionchildprotection.org/PDF/Jan-2008%20Living%20Arrangements%20Endanger.pdf
Abstract: This paper reviews criteria social workers should consider when assessing whether the living structure in which a child resides and whether something about the structure or within it directly endangers a child's safety. It explains what constitutes endangered physical health and lists criteria for threats relating to living conditions, hygiene, toxins, household items, surroundings, and the home environment. The need to assess child supervision and to acknowledge cultural differences and personal biases are discussed, as well as strategies for applying the safety threshold criteria. Examples of the threat are also provided.

Title: Analysing Child Deaths and Serious Injury Through Abuse and Neglect: What Can We Learn?: A Biennial Analysis of Serious Case Reviews 2003-2005.
Author(s): Brandon, Marian.;Belderson, Pippa.;Warren, Catherine.;Howe, David.;Gardner, Ruth.;Dodsworth, Jane.;Black, Jane.
Published: 2008
Available from: Department for Children, Schools and Families
http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/
Sanctuary Buildings, Great Smith Street
London SW1P 3BT
Printable version (PDF): http://www.dfes.gov.uk/research/data/uploadfiles/DCSF-RR023.pdf
Abstract: At least every two years, an overview analysis of serious case reviews in England is commissioned to draw out themes and trends, so that lessons learnt from these cases as a whole can inform both policy and practice. This is the third such overview analysis. The study included data from 161 serious case reviews conducted during April 2003 to March 2005. Information is provided on the methodology of the study, findings from a literature review on serious case reviews, characteristics of the children and carers and agency involvement, findings from an assessment and analysis using an ecological-transactional perspective, and key themes from the cases. Findings from the study indicate: two-thirds of the 161 children died and a third were seriously injured; a total of 47% of the children were aged under 1; a total of 12% of children were named on the child protection register, and 55% of children were known to children's social care at the time of the incident; the families of very young children who were physically assaulted tended to be in contact with universal services or adult services rather than children's social care; in families where children suffered long term neglect, children's social care often failed to take account of past history; and in the cases where the information was available, well over half of the children had been living with domestic violence, or parental mental ill health, or parental substance misuse. Implications for employing safer practices are discussed. 11 tables, 24 figures, and numerous references.

Title: Quality Improvement for Drug Courts: Evidence-Based Practices.
Author(s): Hardin, Carolyn.;Kushner, Jeffrey N.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Drug Court Institute
901 N. Pitt St., Suite 370
Alexandria, VA 22314
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ndci.org/publications/quality_improvement_web.pdf
Abstract: This monograph is designed to help drug court teams implement practices to improve overall program operations. It presents a general overview of the research on effectively treating the drug court client and elucidates the kinds of issues that a drug court administrator and supervisor should consider in developing Request for Proposals for treatment services and identifying additional resources to better serve drug court participants. Chapters address practices in the following areas: drug court screening; evaluating the effectiveness of addiction treatment; relapse prevention therapy with substance abusing offenders; medication-assisted treatment for participants in drug court programs; cultural competency in drug court; co-occurring disorders; gender-responsive drug treatment services for women; case management and drug courts; linking drug court participants to needed services; motivational incentives in drug court; and application of sanctions. Each chapter is organized into four main areas: introduction, narrative, recommendations, and resources. The recommendations are presented in order of importance and the extensive list of resources is provided to allow the teams to further review the concepts. The monograph closes with a checklist for designing problem-solving courts to address co-occurring disorders. Numerous references.

Title: Youth Suicide and Self-Harm: What Advocates Need to Know.
Author(s): Pilnik, Lisa.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: ABA Child Law Practice
v. 27, 4, June 2008, p. 49, 54-59
Available from: ABA Center on Children and the Law
http://www.abanet.org/child
740 15th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20005
Abstract: This article reviews statistics on youth suicide, risk factors that influence the probability that a person will take her own life, and suicide red flags. Tips are provided for identifying and helping suicidal youth, reducing suicide risk factors, and increasing suicide protective factors for youth. Stories are also shared of a failed intervention and a suicide that was successfully averted.

Title: Intimate Partner Violence Among Adolescent and Young Adult Mothers.
Author(s): Leaman, Suzanne C.;Gee, Christina B.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of Family Violence.
v. 23, 6, August 2008, p. 519-528
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: The associations between intimate partner violence (IPV) and mental health among adolescent and young adult mothers were compared. The sample was drawn from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study and participants were 672 mothers between the ages of 14 and 21. IPV was significantly positively associated with both depression and anxiety among young adult mothers. However, these associations were not found among adolescent mothers. In addition, IPV and marital status were significantly related among young adult mothers, but not adolescent mothers. Results suggest that IPV may have different consequences during different parts of the life course, or that mental health symptoms may be reported only later in life. (Author abstract)

Title: The Effect of Alaska's Home Visitation Program for High-Risk Families on Trends in Abuse and Neglect.
Author(s): Gessner, Bradford D.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, March 2008, p. 317-333
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objectives: At 6 sites serving 21 communities, Alaska implemented Healthy Families Alaska, a home visitation program using paraprofessionals designed to decrease child abuse and neglect. The primary study objective was to compare changes over time in Child Protective Services outcomes by Healthy Families Alaska enrollment status.
Methods: Enrollment status was linked to birth certificates for birth years 1996-2002 which in turn was linked to the Alaska Child Protective Services database for outcome years 1996-2004. All children were followed through the study databases until age 2 years.
Results: There were 40,099 children born during 1996-2002 to residents of Healthy Families Alaska communities and 985 were enrolled in the program. Physical abuse referrals among enrolled children decreased from 73 to 42 per 1000 child-years of follow-up from 1996-1998 to 2000-2002 (p = .005); all of this decrease occurred among children who received 20 or more home visitations. This decrease may have been unrelated to program impact as a similar decrease in referral was seen among unenrolled high-risk children. Compared to unenrolled high-risk children, enrolled children had a modest decrease in the proportion with substantiated neglect but no difference in the proportion with neglect referral or physical abuse referral or substantiation.
Conclusions: Little evidence exists that Alaska's home visitation program had a measurable impact on child maltreatment outcomes.
Practice implications: Within Alaskan communities that had a home visitation program targeting families at high risk for child abuse, changes in Child Protective Services outcomes among children less than 2 years of age were followed over time by program enrollment status. Enrollment was associated with a substantial decrease in physical abuse referrals, but a similar decrease was seen among unenrolled high-risk children. No improvement was seen in physical abuse substantiation. A greater number of home visitations was not associated with fewer abuse outcomes. This work supports most of the recent literature, which questions the field effectiveness of home visitation programs. In combination with other studies, the current work may lead decision-makers and funding agencies to re-examine the usefulness of home visitation programs, particularly those using a methodology similar to that implemented in Alaska. (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: Predictors of Homelessness and Doubling-Up Among At Risk Families.
Published: 2008
Available from: Center for Research on Child Wellbeing
http://crcw.princeton.edu
Wallace Hall
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ 08544
Printable version (PDF): http://www.fragilefamilies.princeton.edu/briefs/ResearchBrief43.pdf
Abstract: This brief is based on analyses of data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study that examines the relative contribution of both family- and city-level factors in predicting family homelessness and doubling-up (moving in with family or friends). (Author abstract)

Title: A Population at Risk: Youth Aging Out of the Foster Care System and Implications for Extension.
Author(s): Baugh, Eboni J.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of extension [electronic journal]
v. 46, 4, August 2008,
Available from: Journal of Extension
http://www.joe.org
Document available online at: http://www.joe.org/joe/2008august/iw3.shtml
Abstract: Youth who age out of the foster care system are faced with many unique challenges. This article offers an overview of risk factors found within this group, occurring both before and after discharge from care. Suggestions are given for the creation of Extension programs that address the specific needs of this growing population. (Author abstract)

Title: Harford County Family Recovery Court (FRC) Evaluation Summary.
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_Evaluation_Summary_0308.pdf
Abstract: This fact sheet highlights findings from 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. The evaluation 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. Findings indicate: children served the FRC spent 136 days in foster care as compared to 443 days for controls; 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; and FRC cases were less costly to the child welfare system than other cases. Total cost savings per year of Harford County FRC operations was nearly $317,000, or approximately $12,000 per served family.

Title: From Surviving to Thriving: How Communities Can Help Vermont's Rural Homeless Youth and the Programs That Serve Them.
Author(s): Bielawski-Branch, Karen.;Goodman, Melanie.;Gramarossa, Gail.;Johnson, Hattie.;Smith, Jennifer A.;Tanner, Doug.
Published: 2008
Available from: New England Network for Child, Youth and Family Services
http://www.nenetwork.org/
156 College Street, Suite 301

Burlington, VT 05401-8423
Printable version (PDF): http://www.nenetwork.org/publications/surviving_to_thriving.pdf
Abstract: This report assesses the strengths and weaknesses of eight rural transitional living programs in the state of Vermont. It has been prepared by New England Network for Child, Youth & Family Services, under contract to the Vermont Coalition of Runaway and Homeless Youth Programs (VCRHYP), as the first step in VCRHYP's plan to improve services to this vulnerable population of young people. The assessment addresses matters of sustainability, community culture, available resources, and the vision and mission of the programs, with a particular emphasis on describing unmet service needs for transition-aged youth in Vermont and areas where the development of additional programming may be needed. The findings of this report will become the basis of strategic planning in Vermont that will aim at increasing the capacity to serve transition-aged youth, particularly those who need special services to avoid unemployment and homelessness. (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: Entry Into Residential Care by Clinical and Non-Clinical Characteristics Among Youth in State Custody.
Author(s): Park, Jun Min.
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/Residential%20Care_JMP.pdf
Abstract: This study examined the extent and correlates of entry into residential care among 672 children and adolescents in state custody who have experienced a psychiatric crisis. Overall, 36% of the sample was placed in residential care at some point after their first psychiatric crisis screening. Among the youth placed in residential care, 54% did so within 6 months of their first crisis screening, with an additional 18% between 6 and 12 months. Psychiatric hospitalization, older age, and type of child welfare placement, independent of psychiatric status, were associated with an increased risk for residential care placement. Having an inpatient psychiatric episode places children at greater risk for residential placement, suggesting that it would be efficient to develop diversion programs from residential placements within and immediately following psychiatric hospital episodes. Youth in psychiatric crisis may also benefit from efforts to include their families as part of the treatment process. (Author abstract)

Title: Exploring the Relationship Between Homelessness and Delinquency: A Snapshot of a Group of Homeless Youth in San Jose, California.
Author(s): Schwartz, Marci.;Sorensen, Heather Kissinger.;Ammerman, Seth.;Bard, Emilie.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal
v. 25, 4, August 2008, p. 255-269
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: This paper reports the findings of an exploratory study examining the relationship between homelessness and delinquency in adolescents. Researchers collected data from interviews of 42 homeless youth contacted through a drop-in center in San Jose, California. Participants responded to a structured interview as well as two vignettes describing situations in which crimes were committed. The most striking findings are that (1) reported rates of delinquency are higher than expected based on past research, and (2) despite the high rates of delinquency, answers to a ?three wishes? question describe wishes and ideals that are largely consistent with mainstream societal values. This paper provides a survey of existing research on homeless youth and delinquency, a comparison of our findings to those of previous studies, and two detailed case studies that highlight the patterns we observed in the broader survey. (Author abstract)

Title: An Exploratory Study of Group Therapy for Sexually Abused Adolescents and Nonoffending Guardians.
Author(s): Smith, Amanda P.;Kelly, Adrian B.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse
v. 17, 2, 2008, p. 101-116
Available from: Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
325 Chestnut Street
Suite 800
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: Adolescent survivors of sexual abuse frequently report severe trauma, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. While cognitive-behavioral group interventions show promise, interpreting efficacy is problematic due to commonly high attrition. This article reports promising exploratory study findings relating to a 12-week multimodal abuse-specific group intervention with a nonoffending parent/caregiver component. Participants (aged 11?16 years) consisted of six adolescents with severe abuse histories, and their caregivers. Participants completed pre-, post-, and 1-month follow-up measures. The results were consistent with the possibility that the program produced clinically meaningful reductions in abuse-related psychological sequelae, the program had excellent face validity with participants, and there were no dropouts. (Author abstract)

Title: Behavioral Parent Training in Child Welfare: Evaluations of Skills Acquisition.
Author(s): Van Camp, Carole M.;Vollmer, Timothy R.;Goh, Han-Leong.;Whitehouse, Cristina M.;Reyes, Jorge.;Montgomery, Jan L.;Borrero, John C.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Research on social work practice
v. 18, 5, September 2008, p. 377-391
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Document available online at: http://rsw.sagepub.com/content/vol18/issue5/
Abstract: Objective: Behavioral parent training has been proven effective through years of research with a variety of groups. However, little research has been conducted to systematically evaluate the extent to which behavioral parent training may improve parenting skills of foster and other caregivers of dependent children. The Behavior Analysis Services Program (BASP) has been charged with providing behavioral parent training to foster parents and other caregivers of dependent children throughout the state of Florida through a variety of services focusing primarily on a group-class-based training curriculum. This article examines the extent to which behavioral parent training was effective in increasing skills of caregivers who were trained in 2001 and 2002. Methods: Study 1 evaluated skills acquisition via a large-scale analysis of precourse and postcourse assessments, as well as observations of in-home parent-child interactions. Study 2 assessed skills acquisition via controlled analyses using repeated measures and multiple baseline designs. Results: Results showed increases in parenting skills in both studies as a function of curriculum training. Discussion: Implications of the results, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed. (Author abstract)

Title: Keep in Touch: Young People Offer Advice on Staying Connected and Living Independently.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Clearinghouse on Families and Youth
http://www.ncfy.com/
P. O. Box 13505
Silver Spring, MD 20911-3505
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ncfy.com/publications/pdf/keepintouch.pdf
Abstract: In this brochure, adolescents who have experienced homelessness or who have been in foster care discuss their experiences and offer advice to other youth on making the transition to independence. The benefits of a transitional living program are highlighted and a checklist is provided for youth transitioning to independence.

Title: An Overview of Operational Family Dependency Treatment Courts.
Author(s): Pach, Nicolette M.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Drug Court Review
v. 6, 1, Summer 2008, p. 67-121
Available from: National Drug Court Institute
901 N. Pitt St., Suite 370
Alexandria, VA 22314
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ndci.org/sites/default/files/ndci/DCRVI1%5B1%5D.pdf
Abstract: The intent of this article is to lay the groundwork for a national conversation about Family Dependency Treatment Courts (FDTCs). While FDTCs are in many ways similar to drug courts, they have their own set of complications that render NADCP?s 10 key components necessary, yet insufficient, to guide the establishment, maintenance, and improvement of FDTCs. Questions about best practices surround such issues as child welfare, the Adoption and Safe Families Act (1997) timelines, the civil court arena, and the scope of the intervention. When the best interests of the child are paramount, sanctions and incentives for an alcohol and other drug (AOD)-involved parent must be carefully handled. Federal timelines must be fully considered by FDTCs in their planning. Sanctions in particular are complicated by the fact that FDTCs occur in a civil arena rather than the criminal one like traditional drug courts. Finally, a court must decide whether the FDTC intervention will consider a full range of psychosocial and legal problems facing a particular family, or if it will concentrate solely on AOD involvement. This article should serve as a focal point through which those professionals involved in FDTCs can create their own components necessary for FDTCs.

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: The Effect of Family Communication Patterns on Adopted Adolescent Adjustment.
Author(s): Rueter, Martha A.;Koerner, Ascan F.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of Marriage and Family
v. 70, 3, August 2008, p. 715-727
Available from: Blackwell Publishing
http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/
350 Main Street
Malden, MA 02148
Abstract: Adoption and family communication both affect adolescent adjustment. We proposed that adoption status and family communication interact such that adopted adolescents in families with certain communication patterns are at greater risk for adjustment problems. We tested this hypothesis using a community-based sample of 384 adoptive and 208 nonadoptive families. Adolescents in these families were, on average, 16 years of age. The results supported our hypothesis. Adopted adolescents were at significantly greater risk for adjustment problems compared to nonadopted adolescents in families that emphasized conformity orientation without conversation orientation and in families that emphasized neither conformity nor conversation orientation. Adolescents in families emphasizing conversation orientation were at lower risk for adjustment problems, regardless of adoption status. (Author abstract)

Title: The Canadian Child Welfare System Response to Exposure to Domestic Violence Investigations.
Author(s): Black, Tara.;Trocmé, Nico.;Fallon, Barbara.;MacLaurin, Bruce.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, March 2008, p. 393-404
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: While child welfare policy and legislation reflects that children who are exposed to domestic violence are in need of protection because they are at risk of emotional and physical harm, little is known about the profile of families and children identified to the child welfare system and the system's response. The objective of this study was to examine the child welfare system's response to child maltreatment investigations substantiated for exposure to domestic violence (EDV). Methods: This study is based on a secondary analysis of data collected in the 2003 Canadian Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect (CIS-2003). Bivariate analyses were conducted on substantiated investigations. A binary logistic regression was also conducted to attempt to predict child welfare placements for investigations involving EDV. Results: What emerges from this study is that the child welfare system's response to EDV largely depends on whether it occurs in isolation or with another substantiated form of child maltreatment. For example, children involved in substantiated investigations that involve EDV with another form of substantiated maltreatment are almost four times more likely than investigations involving only EDV to be placed in a child welfare setting (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 3.87, p < .001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that the involvement of child welfare has not resulted in the widespread placement of children exposed to domestic violence. The Canadian child welfare system is substantiating EDV at a high rate but is concluding that these families do not require child protection services. Practice implications: There is debate in the literature about how the child welfare sector should respond to cases involving exposure to domestic violence. Contrary to conventional wisdom, this study finds that children who are the subject of investigations involving substantiated exposure to domestic violence are less likely to be removed from their home than children experiencing other forms of maltreatment. Strategies need to be developed to counter misperceptions about the intrusiveness of child welfare, and discussions need to take place about when it is appropriate for child welfare to become involved when children are exposed to domestic violence. (Author abstract)

Title: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy with Domestic Violence Populations
Author(s): Borrego, Joaquin.;Gutow, Mindy R.;Reicher, Shira.;Barker, Chikira H.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of Family Violence.
v. 23, 6, August 2008, p. 495-505
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: Domestic violence continues to be a significant social problem impacting our society. Battered women and their children experience a myriad of negative consequences as a result of domestic violence. Of the possible negative sequelae that mothers and children experience, the disrupted parent-child relationship has received relatively little attention in the literature. Though psychosocial interventions are available to treat women who experience violence and children who witness violence, few interventions focus on the parent-child relationship. This article describes parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT), a relationship-based intervention. Although not initially developed to treat domestic violence, PCIT has unique characteristics that make it a promising intervention with this population. A rationale for the use of PCIT with battered women and their children is presented.

Title: Collaborative Care: Infant Mental Health Consultation in a Child Welfare Setting.
Author(s): Wotherspoon, Evelyn.;O'Neill-Laberge, Marlene.;Rafaat, Susan.;Pirie, June.;Hammel, David.;Macdonald, Liane.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Zero to Three.
v. 28, 6, July 2008, p. 13-17
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: The Collaborative Mental Hearth Care program offers infant mental health consultations to case managers in child protection offices throughout the city of Calgary in Alberta, Canada. Through case examples, the authors demonstrate why clinicians working with maltreated infants should expand the scope of their practice to include multidisciplinary training, program development, and policy advocacy. (Author abstract)

Title: Helping Teens Handle Tough Experiences: Strategies to Foster Resilience.
Author(s): Nelson, Jill R.;Kjos, Sarah.
Published: 2008
Available from: Search Institute
http://www.search-institute.org/
The Banks Building
615 First Avenue NE,
Suite 125
Minneapolis, MN 55413
Abstract: This book highlights 20 adversities that an adolescent may face, explains how each adversity may impact a teen, and provides tips, advice, and suggestions for working with teens who are dealing with these challenges. The book begins with an explanation of strength interviewing in which teens are asked about their positive influences or attributes and encouraged to build on them. Strength interviewing tips and suggestions for questions are provided. The 40 developmental assets that are crucial to positive youth development are then listed, including external and internal assets. Following chapters focus on one of the 20 adversities, including: addiction, anxiety, attention and behavior disorders, bullying, chemically dependent parents, dating violence, depression, divorce, domestic violence, eating disorders, foster care, gangs, sexual identity issues, homelessness, mentally ill parents, physical abuse, pregnancy, self-injury, sexual abuse, and suicide. Each chapter includes reproducible handouts to give to other educators and youth workers, parents, or teens themselves, and contains suggestions for further reading, Web sites, and contact information for relevant organizations.

Title: Babies at Double Jeopardy: Medically Fragile Infants and Child Neglect.
Author(s): Fullar, Suzanne A.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Zero to Three.
v. 28, 6, July 2008, p. 25-32
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: Medically fragile infants, those born prematurely or with other complex medical or genetic problems, are at risk of long-term health and developmental problems. When a medically fragile infant comes home to a family with significant social problems such as domestic violence, mental illness, or substance abuse, the infant is at double jeopardy, at risk of both child neglect and poor developmental outcome. To be effective, early intervention services must address the needs of the family as well as those of the infant. When neglect occurs, collaboration among medical, early intervention, child welfare, and judicial systems is critical to ensure that these infants reach their full potential. (Author abstract)

Title: Questions and Answers: What Child Welfare Professionals Need to Know about Awaiting Foster Care Placement and the McKinney-Vento Act.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Center for Homeless Education at SERVE
http://www.serve.org/nche
P.O. Box 5367
Greensboro, NC 27435
Printable version (PDF): http://www.serve.org/nche/downloads/aba_awaitfcp.pdf
Abstract: This brief answers questions about the McKinney-Vento Act, a federal law designed to increase the school enrollment, attendance, and success of children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. The law provides modest grants to States to provide supplemental services to eligible youth. Information is provided on eligibility for services, special protections given to children under the Act, steps for accessing services for an eligible child, information about the child that is needed to provide services, and strategies child welfare professionals can use to work collaboratively with McKinney-Vento programs to best serve children.

Title: Youths Who Witness or Experience Abuse as a Child More Likely to Drink Before Age 13.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: CESAR Fax
v. 17, 19, May 12, 2008, p. 1
Available from: Center for Substance Abuse Research
http://www.cesar.umd.edu
4321 Hartwick Road
Suite 501
College Park, MD 20740
Printable version (PDF): http://www.cesar.umd.edu/cesar/cesarfax/vol17/17-19.pdf
Abstract: This fact sheet presents statistics from the Youth Violence Survey, a cross-sectional survey of all public school students enrolled in grades 7, 9, 11, and 12 in a school district in a high-risk urban community conducted in 2004. Results from participants (n=3,559) indicate exposure to abuse as a young child is related to early alcohol initiation. Youths who reported experiencing physical or sexual abuse before age 10 were more likely than those who had not to begin drinking alcohol before age 13. Furthermore, youths who reported witnessing domestic violence between their parents/guardians were also more likely to begin drinking at an early age, at a rate similar to those youths reporting direct abuse. 1 figure and 1 reference.

Title: Impacts of Early Childhood Programs.
Author(s): Isaacs, Julia B.
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/EarlyChildhoodPrograms.pdf
Abstract: This collection of research briefs summarizes existing evidence on early childhood interventions and their impact on children and families. The five briefs find that most early childhood programs have had positive impacts on children's emotional and behavioral outcomes, including long-term reductions in criminal behavior, improvements in children's health and safety, and positive impacts on children's parents. Included in this publication are briefs about: State Pre-Kindergarten; Head Start; Early Head Start; Model Early Childhood Programs; and Nurse Home Visiting. (Author abstract)

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: Psychosocial and Behavioral Factors Related to the Post-Partum Placements of Infants Born to Cocaine-Using Women.
Author(s): Minnes, Sonia.;Singer, Lynn T.;Humphrey-Wall, Rashida.;Satayathum, Sudtida.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, March 2008, p. 353-366
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: One objective was to determine if cocaine-using women who did not maintain infant custody (NMC) would report more psychological distress, domestic violence, negative coping skills, lower social support and more childhood trauma than cocaine-using women who maintained custody (MC) of their infant. A second objective was to evaluate the relative contribution of psychosocial factors to infant placement. Methods: Psychosocial profiles of MC women (n = 144) were compared with NMC (n = 66) cocaine-using women. Subjects were low income, urban, African-American women who delivered an infant at a county teaching hospital. The Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), an assessment of coping strategies (COPE), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS) and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) were administered. The associations of infant placement status to demographic factors, drug use and psychosocial measures were evaluated. ResultsZ: The NMC group reported greater overall psychological distress, psychoticism, somatization, anxiety and hostility than the MC group. The NMC group had more childhood neglect and physical abuse and used more negative coping strategies than the MC group. Lack of prenatal care [OR = .83, CI (.75?.91), p < .0001], heavier prenatal cocaine use [OR = 2.55, CI (1.13?4.34), p < .007], greater psychological distress [OR = 2.21, CI (1.13?4.34), p < .02] and a childhood history of emotional neglect [OR = 1.10, CI (1.02?1.19), p < .02] were associated with increased likelihood of loss of infant custody after control for other substance use and demographic variables. Conclusions: NMC women have more negative psychological and behavioral functioning post-partum than MC women. Less prenatal care and greater cocaine use, psychological distress and maternal childhood emotional neglect are associated with the post-partum placement of infants born to cocaine-using women. Practice implications: Results of this study indicate that poor, urban women who use cocaine prenatally display several measurable differences on psychosocial and behavioral risk factors based on child placement status. Among these risk factors heavier cocaine use, lack of prenatal care, more severe psychological symptoms and early childhood experiences of emotional neglect increase the likelihood of loss of infant custody. Routine, objective assessments of psychosocial and behavioral characteristics of women who use cocaine during pregnancy can aid Child Protective Service workers and clinicians by providing baseline data from which to tailor interventions and set improvement criteria for mother-child reunification. (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: Developmental Experiences of Child Sexual Abusers and Rapists.
Author(s): Simons, Dominique A.;Wurtele, Sandy K.;Durham, Robert L.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, May 2008, p. 549-560
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the distinct developmental experiences associated with child sexual abuse and rape. Method: For 269 sexual offenders (137 rapists and 132 child sexual abusers), developmental experiences were recorded from a behavioral checklist, a parental-bonding survey, and a sexual history questionnaire. Offender classification was obtained from official records and verified through polygraph examinations. Results: Compared to rapists, child sexual abusers reported more frequent experiences of child sexual abuse (73%), early exposure to pornography (65% before age 10), an earlier onset of masturbation (60% before age 11), and sexual activities with animals (38%). In contrast to child sexual abusers, rapists reported more frequent experiences of physical abuse (68%), parental violence (78%), emotional abuse (70%), and cruelty to animals (68%). Both child sexual abusers and rapists (>93%) reported frequent exposure to violent media during their childhood. Most offenders (94%) described having insecure parental attachment bonds; 76% of rapists reported avoidant parental attachments and 62% of child sexual abusers reported anxious parental attachments. Conclusions: Findings from this study support the role of specific developmental experiences as etiological factors in differential sexual offending. Child sexual abusers? developmental histories were characterized by heightened sexuality; whereas rapists? childhood histories were more indicative of violence. These findings have implications for the treatment of sexual abusers and the prevention of sexual abuse. Practice implications This study's findings suggest that sexual offenders have been socialized to satisfy human needs of intimacy and sexuality through maladaptive means, which implies that a risk management approach may not be sufficient treatment. Although risk models teach offenders skills to avoid high-risk situations, they fail to address the maladaptive strategies that they may have developed for satisfying needs. Instead, the focus of treatment should be to equip offenders with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to achieve these needs in an acceptable manner. Thus, this model will provide these individuals with the opportunity to live a healthy life without sexual offending. (Author abstract)

Title: Risk Factors for the Perpetration of Child Sexual Abuse: A Review and Meta-Analysis.
Author(s): Whitaker, Daniel J.;Le, Brenda.;Hanson, R. Karl.;Baker, Charlene K.;McMahon, Pam M.;Ryan, Gail.;Klein, Alisa.;Rice, Deborah Donovan.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, May 2008, p. 529-548
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objectives: Since the late 1980s, there has been a strong theoretical focus on psychological and social influences of perpetration of child sexual abuse. This paper presents the results of a review and meta-analysis of studies examining risk factors for perpetration of child sexual abuse published since 1990. Method: Eighty-nine studies published between 1990 and April of 2003 were reviewed. Risk factors were classified into one of the following six broad categories: family factors, externalizing behaviors, internalizing behaviors, social deficits, sexual problems, and attitudes/beliefs. Sex offenders against children (SOC) were compared to three comparison groups identified within the 89 studies: sex offenders who perpetrated against adults (SOA), non-sex offenders, and non-offenders with no history of criminal or sexual behavior problems. Results: Results for the six major categories showed that SOC were not different from SOA (all d between −.02 and .14) other than showing lower externalizing behaviors (d = −.25). Sex offenders against children were somewhat different from non-sex offenders, especially with regard to sexual problems and attitudes (d = .83 and .51). Sex offenders against children showed substantial differences from non-offenders with medium sized effects in all six major categories (d's range from .39 to .58). Conclusion: Child sex offenders are different from non-sex offenders and non-offenders but not from sex offenders against adults. Practice implications: This study suggests that the presence of general risk factors may lead to a variety of negative behavioral outcomes, including the perpetration of child sexual offending. Family factors were strongly related to the perpetration of child sex offending (vs. non-sexual offending or non-offending) and may be valuable intervention points for interrupting the development of child sex offending, as well as other negative behaviors. Other potential points for intervention may focus on the development of appropriate social and emotional skills that contribute to sexual offending. (Author abstract)

Title: Protective and Vulnerability Factors for Physically Abused Children: Effects of Ethnicity and Parenting Context.
Author(s): Haskett, Mary E.;Allaire, Jason C.;Kreig, Shawn.;Hart, Kendrea C.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, May 2008, p. 567-576
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: Although social maladjustment appears to be common among abused children, negative outcomes are not inevitable. This investigation was designed to determine whether ethnicity and features of the parenting context predicted children's social adjustment, and whether the strength and direction of these relations differed for abused and nonabused children. Method: Participants included 78 physically abused and 75 demographically matched nonabused children and one of their parents. Observations of parenting were used to measure parental sensitivity, and parent self-reports of depression were obtained using the SCL-90-R. Children's peer social adjustment was measured by teacher report. Results: Using regression analysis, we tested whether each potential protective or vulnerability factor interacted with abuse status in prediction of social adjustment. Results indicated main effects of ethnicity and sensitivity for prosocial behavior, and a main effect of sensitivity for aggression. In addition, there was a significant interaction of ethnicity and abuse status for aggression such that there was a significant difference between abused and nonabused European American children but not between abused and nonabused African American children. Conclusions: Findings indicate that risk for aggressive behavior among abused children might be culturally specific rather than universal. In addition, results point to beneficial effects of parental sensitivity for maltreated children. (Author abstract)

Title: Do Chronic Conditions Increase Young Children's Risk of Being Maltreated?
Author(s): Jaudes, Paula Kienberger.;Mackey-Bilaver, Lucy.;
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, July 2008, p. 671-681
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: To examine whether and to what extent specific chronic health conditions place young children at risk of maltreatment. Methods: The study used a sample of Illinois children (born between January 1990 and March 1996) who were through age 3 continuously enrolled in Medicaid, a public health insurance program for low-income families. The study used ¡°paid claims¡± data and ICD-9-CM health codes to identify children with one or more of three chronic conditions: chronic physical illness, developmental delay/mental retardation (dd/mr), and behavior/mental health conditions (b/mh). The analysis used Cox proportional hazard models to estimate the risk of substantiated child maltreatment that each of these health conditions confer on children under age 6. Results: Among children under age 6, 24.1% had chronic physical health conditions, 6.1% had b/mh conditions, and 4.2% had dd/mr. Among the children, 11.7% were maltreated (abused or neglected). Children with b/mh conditions were 1.95 times more likely than children without such conditions to be victims of child abuse or neglect. Children with chronic physical health conditions were 1.1 time more likely to be maltreated (p ¡Ü .001). In contrast, children with dd/mr were not at an increased risk of maltreatment. Further, if the child had a prior history of abuse or neglect before age 3 and was also diagnosed with a behavioral health condition, that child was 10 times more likely to be maltreated again (relative risk of 9.2, p ¡Ü .0001). Conclusions: Behavioral/mental health conditions placed low-income children under age 6 at the highest risk of abuse or neglect. Developmental delay/mental retardation, however, did not appear to increase the risk of maltreatment, while chronic physical health conditions increased the risk slightly among this group of children. Therefore, identified behavior/mental health in young, low-income children should be considered a risk factor for potential abuse to pediatricians and other health professionals. Child protection agencies should be trained to identify behavioral/mental health conditions of children. Practice implications: Chronic behavioral/mental health conditions place young children at heightened risk of abuse or neglect. Early detection of mental or psychosocial health conditions is mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law that governs how state and public agencies provide services to children with disabilities. Given the higher risk of abuse and neglect among children with behavioral/mental health conditions, clinicians should give added scrutiny to these children. Child protection agencies should also be trained to identify behavioral/mental health conditions, and more states should record disability status in their abuse records. (Author abstract)

Title: Expertise in Child Protection Work. (Chapter 2 in Effective Child Protection. Second Edition.)
Author(s): Munro, Eileen.
Published: 2008
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Abstract: This chapter examines the nature of expertise in professional practice. It outlines two forms of human reasoning, examines the strengths and limitations of intuitive reasoning and analytic reasoning, and offers a framework that sees them on a continuum. A case example is offered to illustrate key points. 1 table.

Title: Parental Responses to Infant Crying: The Influence of Child Physical Abuse Risk and Hostile Priming.
Author(s): Crouch, Julie L.;Skowronski, John J.;Milner, Joel S.;Harris, Benjamin.;
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Child Abuse and Neglect : The International Journal.
v. 32, 3, July 2008, p. 702-710
Available from: Elsevier
http://www.elsevier.com/
Customer Service Department
6277 Sea Harbor Drive
Orlando, FL 32887-4800
Abstract: Objective: Managing a crying infant is a challenge universally faced by new parents. This study examined whether parental interpretations, feelings, and behaviors following exposure to a 2-minute videotaped segment of a crying infant varied as a function of child physical abuse (CPA) risk and exposure to cues of hostility (i.e., hostile priming). Method: Participants included 84 general population parents (52 low and 32 high CPA risk) with valid and complete protocols. It was predicted that (1) negative trait ratings, (2) feelings of hostility, and (3) ability to modulate grip strength would differ across CPA risk groups (high vs. low) and priming conditions (hostile vs. neutral). Results: As expected, high, compared to low, CPA risk parents rated the crying infant more negatively and reported higher levels of hostile feelings after watching the crying infant video. Hostile priming independently increased feelings of hostility, such that high CPA risk parents who were primed with hostile words reported higher levels of hostile feelings relative to all other conditions. Hostile priming also was modestly associated with increased use of excessive force when parents attempted to produce a half-strength grip; however this difference was apparent only among high CPA risk parents. Conclusions: High, compared to low, CPA risk parents rated the crying infant more negatively and reported higher levels of hostile feelings after watching the crying infant video. Hostile priming independently increased hostile feelings and was modestly associated with use of excessive force in the hand grip task among high CPA risk parents. (Author abstract)

Title: Quality of Maternal Parenting among Intimate-Partner Violence Victims Involved with the Child Welfare System.
Author(s): Casanueva, Cecilia.;Martin, Sandra L.;Runyan, Desmond K.;Barth, Richard P.;Bradley, Robert H.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of Family Violence.
v. 23, 6, August 2008, p. 413-427
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: Children are overrepresented in households with intimate-partner violence (IPV), and many suffer the double burden of being the subject of maltreatment and bearing the consequences of abuse to their mothers. Despite this situation, little information exists concerning parenting by women who have been abused by an intimate partner. We examine the relationship between women?s experiences with IPV and the quality of maternal parenting using data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being. The sample consisted of 1,943 female caregivers of children younger than 10 years investigated for child maltreatment. Women who had experienced IPV in the past but were no longer victims of IPV had significantly better parenting scores than women who were currently experiencing IPV, when other risk factors were controlled. This study adds to the evidence that IPV does not necessarily impair maternal parenting. Women abused by an intimate partner deserve a thorough assessment of what services they need: parenting services should be offered as warranted on a case-by-case evaluation of the particular woman?s parenting skills. (Author abstract)

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: Self-Reported Abuse History as a Risk Factor in Permanency Planning.
Author(s): Reich, Warren A.;Hudis, Jan.
Published: 2007
Journal Name: The Source
v. 16, 1, Summer 2007, p. 21-24
Available from: National Abandoned Infants Assistance Resource Center
http://aia.berkeley.edu
University of California, Berkeley
School of Social Welfare
1950 Addison St., Suite 104
Berkeley, CA 94704
Printable version (PDF): http://aia.berkeley.edu/media/pdf/source_reich.pdf
Abstract: In the present research, we examined the relationship between permanency planning, legal, and psychosocial counseling service engagement, and self-reported history of abuse among clients participating in Project Protect. These clients were HIV-positive and/or substance abusing mothers of minor children in New York City who came to The Family Center seeking to form a permanency plan for their children. Project Protect received federal Abandoned Infants Assistance (AIA) funding from 1998-2005 and participated in collecting data for a nationwide, cross-site evaluation of AIA funded projects. The analyses in this article were conducted based on information collected on Project Protect clients over this eight-year period. (Author abstract)

Title: Residential Treatment Programs: Concerns Regarding Abuse and Death in Certain Programs for Troubled Youth: Testimony Before the Committee on Education and Labor, House of Representatives.
Author(s): Kutz, Gregory D.;O'Connell, Andy.
Published: 2007
Available from: Government Accountability Office
http://www.gao.gov/
441 G St., NW
Washington, DC 20548
Printable version (PDF): http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d08146t.pdf
Abstract: Residential treatment programs provide a range of services, including drug and alcohol treatment, confidence building, military-style discipline, and psychological counseling for troubled boys and girls with a variety of addiction, behavioral, and emotional problems. This testimony concerns programs across the country referring to themselves as wilderness therapy programs, boot camps, and academies, among other names. Many cite positive outcomes associated with specific types of residential treatment. There are also allegations regarding the abuse and death of youth enrolled in residential treatment programs. Given concerns about these allegations, particularly in reference to private programs, the Committee asked the General Accountability Office (GAO) to (1) verify whether allegations of abuse and death at residential treatment programs are widespread and (2) examine the facts and circumstances surrounding selected closed cases where a teenager died while enrolled in a private program. To achieve these objectives, GAO conducted numerous interviews and examined documents from closed cases dating as far back as 1990, including police reports, autopsy reports, and state agency oversight reviews and investigations. GAO did not attempt to evaluate the benefits of residential treatment programs or verify the facts regarding the thousands of allegations it reviewed. GAO found thousands of allegations of abuse, some of which involved death, at residential treatment programs across the country and in American-owned and American-operated facilities abroad between the years 1990 and 2007. Allegations included reports of abuse and death recorded by state agencies and the Department of Health and Human Services, allegations detailed in pending civil and criminal trials with hundreds of plaintiffs, and claims of abuse and death that were posted on the Internet. For example, during 2005 alone, 33 states reported 1,619 staff members involved in incidents of abuse in residential programs. GAO could not identify a more concrete number of allegations because it could not locate a single Web site, federal agency, or other entity that collects comprehensive nationwide data. GAO also examined, in greater detail, 10 closed civil or criminal cases from 1990 through 2004 where a teenager died while enrolled in a private program. GAO found significant evidence of ineffective management in most of the 10 cases, with program leaders neglecting the needs of program participants and staff. This ineffective management compounded the negative consequences of (and sometimes directly resulted in) the hiring of untrained staff; a lack of adequate nourishment; and reckless or negligent operating practices, including a lack of adequate equipment. These factors played a significant role in the deaths GAO examined. (Author abstract)

Title: FASD and The Use of Helmets: A Course for Parents.
Published: 2007
Available from: Alaska Center for Resource Families
http://www.acrf.org/
815 Second Avenue, Suite 101
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Document available online at: http://www.acrf.org/education/helmetCourse/habout.htm
Abstract: This course explores the proper fitting and use of bike helmets with children, specifically children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. The course explores how FASD may necessitate special care in the fitting of helmets and the proper education of children. Suggestions for caregivers are presented and resources for further teaching bike safety and helmet safety are given. This course is based on the publication FASD and the Use of Helmets funded with a grant from the State of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Behavioral Health to the Southcentral Foundation FAS Diagnostic Clinic in Anchorage, Alaska and used here with permission. (Author abstract)

Title: Written Report of Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect for Mandatory Reporters.
Published: 2007
Available from: Alabama Dept. of Human Resources
http://www.dhr.state.al.us/
Gordon Persons Building, Suite 2104
50 North Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36130
Document available online at: http://www.dhr.state.al.us/page.asp?pageid=946
Abstract: Includes instructions and form to be used in conjunction with reports made in person or over the telephone by mandated reporters in Alabama.

Title: The Characteristics and Causes of Homelessness among At Risk Families with Children in Twenty American Cities.
Author(s): Fertig, Angela R.;Reingold, David.
Published: 2007
Available from: Carl Vinson Institute of Government
http://www.cviog.uga.edu/
201 North Milledge Ave.

Athens,, GA 30602-5482
Printable version (PDF): http://www.cviog.uga.edu/childfamilypolicy/publications/homelessness.pdf
Abstract: This paper explores the characteristics and causes of homeless families with children using the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. These unique data measure a rich set of risk factors likely thought to influence homelessness at the individual, household, and city level. We find that homelessness is most strongly linked to informal and institutional social support, and is only modestly associated with local housing and labor market conditions. These results suggest that interventions designed to build and strengthen informal and institutional social support among low-income mothers, including low-income housing assistance, will have the greatest impact on reducing the likelihood of family homelessness, while policies designed to alter local housing and labor market conditions are unlikely to substantially reduce the risk of this pressing social problem. (Author abstract)

Title: ADA County Family Violence Court: Case Coordinator Handbook.
Author(s): Moe, Amber.
Published: 2007
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Printable version (PDF): http://www.americanhumane.org/assets/docs/protecting-children/PC-rmqic-ada-handbook.pdf
Abstract: In December 2002 the Ada County Family Violence Court (FVC) was awarded a three-and-a-half year research grant to strengthen families that struggle with domestic violence, substance abuse, and child maltreatment through a collaborative effort between the Court and the local Child Protection Services (CPS) agency, the Department of Health and Welfare Family and Children Services (DHW). The collaboration and the case management were organized and orchestrated by the Case Coordinator (henceforth referred to as the Coordinator). This handbook describes the professional and educational experiences of the Coordinator, a key member of the project team, as well as a job description for the Coordinator. It also details the Coordinator's role in the program's start-up and implementation activities. This handbook is designed to be a tool for implementing a similar program, although many of the activities described could be adapted to use in a slightly different context. It is hoped that the handbook will be shared and used or modified as needed. (Author abstract)

Title: Research on Early Childhood Education Outcomes.
Published: 2007
Available from: Public Policy Forum
http://www.publicpolicyforum.org/
633 W. Wisconsin Ave., Suite #406
Milwaukee, WI 53203
Document available online at: http://www.publicpolicyforum.org/Matrix.htm
Abstract: The Public Policy Forum has produced a map of existing research on early childhood education. The information is presented in matrix format so that outcomes can be easily compared across studies. Overall, we find that existing research largely supports the connection between higher quality early childhood programs and long-term benefits including improved school-readiness, improved social skills, higher IQ scores, higher standardized test scores, decreased crime and delinquency, and greater earning capacity. Parents of children in high quality child care also benefit as they are better able to find and keep work. Societal benefits from higher quality child care include reduced crime costs and reduced welfare use. Further, increased earnings by early childhood program participants once they reach adulthood will result in increased income tax revenue. (Author abstract)

Title: More Than Safe: Achieving Positive Outcomes for Foster Youth.
Published: 2007
Available from: Action for Children North Carolina
http://www.ncchild.org/action/
1300 St. Mary's Street, Suite 500
Raleigh, NC 27605-1276
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ncchild.org/action/images/stories/CPS_Outcomes_Report_final.pdf
Abstract: This report concentrates on outcomes for children who have been involved in the system. Specifically, the report focuses on children in N.C. Division of Social Services (DSS) custody by assessing stability in out-of-home placements, length of time in care and transitions when aging out of the foster care system. The report examines outcomes in these areas by age, race and ethnicity. The report also highlights promising practices being used in North Carolina to achieve the goals of safety and permanency. Finally, the report provides recommendations on other successful strategies for achieving not only safety and permanence, but positive long-term results for all children involved in child protective services. (Author abstract)

Title: Child Protection and Parent Training Programs [Transcript].
Author(s): Barth, Richard.;Haskins, Ron.;Wulczyn, Fred.;Cherna, Marc.;Simms, Kathy.;Blount, Bernadette.;Johnson, Nancy.;Josey-Herring, Anita.;Knitzer, Jane.
Published: 2007
Available from: Brookings Institution
http://www.brookings.edu
1775 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20036
Printable version (PDF): http://www3.brookings.edu/comm/events/20070726.pdf
Abstract: Harmful parenting practices put children at risk of physical harm and place their long-term development and well-being at risk. Parent training services are becoming an increasingly important focus in child welfare policy because they have the potential to reduce child maltreatment and improve children's development and well-being. Research shows that the nation's child protection programs do not often use parent training programs and even when they do they tend to use programs that have little or no validation of their effectiveness. On July 26, 2007, the Center on Children and Families hosted a panel of researchers, administrators, and child and parent advocates to discuss parent training programs, their implementation, and their effects on children who come to the attention of the child protection system. (Author abstract)

Title: The Family Assessment Program: Trajectories and Effects.
Author(s): Choudhry, Roohi.
Published: 2007
Available from: Vera Institute of Justice
http://www.vera.org/
233 Broadway, 12th Floor
New York, NY 10279
Printable version (PDF): http://www.vera.org/publication_pdf/415_798.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses the findings of a follow-up study that investigated the effects of the Family Assessment Program (FAP) in New York City. First launched in December 2002, FAP aims to connect children and families in crisis to appropriate services more quickly and to reduce reliance on the family court in Persons In Need of Supervision (PINS) cases and reduce the number out-of-home placements for PINS youth. The study began by interviewing 100 youth and their parents who had approached FAP offices in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens between March and September, 2006. Three months later, 75 of the families were able to be contacted for follow-up interviews. Both interviews used a variety of standardized instruments to evaluate youths' mental health, substance use, school attendance, and family functioning. Results of the two interviews were compared to determine the program's possible impact over time. Respondents were also asked about service referral appointments and levels of satisfaction with FAP in the follow-up interview. Findings indicate: young people served by FAP often suffer from complex mental health issues; 75% of youth studied were referred to the Designated Assessment Service (DAS), which offers a more comprehensive assessment and targeted service referrals; 20% of youth studied scheduled an appointment with a referred service on the same day as the FAP intake; 3 months after the FAP intervention, many of the young people showed improvement on several mental health indicators, including suicidal ideation; and 3 months after the FAP intervention, the youth demonstrated reduced stress from conflict and improved perceptions of family function. 24 references and 18 figures.

Title: Federal Funds for Texas CPS.
Published: 2007
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/Fed%20Funding%2007.pdf
Abstract: Texas relies heavily on federal funds to pay for child protection and foster care. Unfortunately, these funds are often too limited or too inflexible to meet our state's child welfare needs. This brief describes the major sources of federal funds and their uses. It also discusses recent policy recommendations to reform federal funding of child protection made by the Pew Commission on Children in Foster Care and other experts. (Author abstract)

Title: Issues of Culture (Chapter 7 of The Child Protection Handbook: The Practitioner's Guide to Safeguarding Children).
Published: 2007
Available from: International Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN)
http://www.ispcan.org/
245 W. Roosevelt Road, Building 6, Suite 39
West Chicago, IL 60185
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ispcan.org/documents/VID/Korbin%20child%20abuse%20chapter%20in%20Wilson%20and%20James%202007.PDF
Abstract: This chapter discusses how culture can be incorporated into child maltreatment work while ensuring equitable standards of care for all children. It explains the concept of cultural competence, culturally competent definitions of child maltreatment, and the need to evaluate cultural differences. Intercultural variability and linking culture with child maltreatment practices are then addressed. 8 references.

Title: Domestic Violence Agencies on the Internet Web site.
Published: 2007
Available from: Paladin Eastside Psychological Services, Inc.
http://paladineastside.com/Home_Page.html
111 S. Garfield Avenue
Suite 101

Montebello, CA 90640
Document available online at: http://www.silcom.com/~paladin/madv/dvagencies.html
Abstract: This directory provides links for domestic violence hotlines and websites of domestic violence organizations in each State. Each resource listing includes a brief description of the activities and resources of the organization. Additional information is provided for organizations in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

Title: Homelessness and Health Care Access After Emancipation: Results From the Midwest Evaluation of Adult Functioning of Former Foster Youth.
Author(s): Kushel, Margot B.;Yen, Irene H.;Gee, Lauren.;Courtney, Mark E.
Published: 2007
Journal Name: Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
v. 161, 10, October 2007, p. 986-993
Available from: American Medical Association
http://www.ama-assn.org/
515 N. State Street
Chicago, IL 60610
Document available online at: http://archpedi.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/161/10/986
Printable version (PDF): http://archpedi.ama-assn.org/cgi/reprint/161/10/986
Abstract: Objective: To estimate the association between housing status and health care access and outcomes among young adults aging out of the child welfare system. Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting: Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Baseline interviews were conducted between May 2002 and March 2003 and follow-up interviews, between March and December 2004. Participants: Participants were foster youth aged 17 or 18 years in Illinois, Wisconsin, or Iowa. We invited a random sample of 67% of eligible Illinois youth and all eligible youth from Wisconsin and Iowa to participate. Researchers interviewed 749 at baseline (94.7% response) and 643 at follow-up (85.8%); we excluded 8 participants without housing data (n = 635). We included only the 345 emancipated participants in analyses of health care access. Main Exposure: Housing status after emancipation: stable housing; unstable housing; or homeless. Main Outcome Measures: Multivariate adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of association between main exposure variables with 3 measures of access to care and 2 health outcomes. Results: Among the 345 emancipated participants, 14.2% experienced homelessness and 39.4% were unstably housed. In multivariate analysis of emancipated participants, homelessness was associated with being uninsured (AOR, 3.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.52-7.63) and having unmet need for health care (AOR, 3.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.40-7.56); it was not associated with not having had ambulatory care. In multivariate analysis of all participants, housing status was not associated with reporting fair or poor health at follow-up or, among women, with having had a pregnancy. Conclusion: Having had an episode of homelessness after emancipation is associated with worse health access, but not worse outcomes, among youth emancipated from foster care. (Author abstract)

Title: Project Replication Handbook.
Author(s): Lucero, Nancy M.;Bussey, Marian.
Published: 2007
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Printable version (PDF): http://www.americanhumane.org/assets/docs/protecting-children/PC-rmqic-dif-handbook.pdf
Abstract: The Denver Indian Family Resource Center (DIFRC), an Indian Child Welfare (ICW) agency, in conjunction with the American Humane Association's Rocky Mountain Quality Improvement Center (RMQIC), initiated a three-year project to evaluate the effectiveness of a set of interventions for the segment of ICW families that are affected by drug and alcohol abuse. The purpose of this handbook is to guide ICW and public child welfare agencies that are considering initiating or improving service delivery to American Indian families that have both child protection and substance abuse issues. This document outlines the DIFRC RMQIC project to increase awareness of the challenges of providing services to populations similar to those served by this project and to support project replication. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Community Partnerships for Child Protection.
Published: 2006
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
Printable version (PDF): http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/rcpdfs/CPPartners.pdf
Abstract: This factsheet explains the benefits of a community partnership among the public child welfare agency, community-based organizations, and neighborhood residents to help prevent child abuse and neglect, respond quickly and effectively when it does occur, and reduce the reoccurrence of child maltreatment through tailored family interventions. The four core elements of a community partnership approach are described and the importance of a community partnership approach is discussed. National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement training and technical assistance activities for implementing the community partnership approach are also listed.

Title: The Internet For Parents: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.
Author(s): Keech, Tamara L.
Published: 2006
Available from: Alaska Center for Resource Families
http://www.acrf.org/
815 Second Avenue, Suite 101
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acrf.org/education/Feature/InternetCourse.pdf
Abstract: This self-study for foster parents looks at: What is the Internet? What is chat and chat rooms? Preventing your child from being a victim, and Protecting your family online. (Author abstract)

Title: Gulf Coast Hurricanes: Addressing Survivors' Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Needs.
Author(s): Sundararaman, Ramya.;Lister, Sarah A.;Williams, Erin D.
Published: 2006
Abstract: This report describes federal assistance programs in HHS that address mental health and substance abuse problems following disasters. In addition, relevant policy issues are presented in the context of the 2005 hurricanes, and several prior disasters. Three appendices provide information on CCP awards made to states in response to Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma, and on the scope of services that constitute mental health treatment. This report will be updated as circumstances warrant. (Author abstract)

Title: Role and Responsibilities of Guardians (Child Protection Advocates) for Unaccompanied and Separated Immigrant, Migrant and Refugee Children.
Published: 2006
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: This brief states that the primary objective of a guardian for an unaccompanied or separated immigrant, migrant, or refugee child, is to identify and promote the child's best interests while he or she is subject to immigration removal proceedings. It discusses criteria for the assignment of Child Protection Advocates, and then outlines the following responsibilities of the advocate: develop a relationship with the child, provide information and guidance on options, act as a liaison to the legal system, explore the child's current situation, and advocate for the child's best interest in the current situation. Guardians are urged to report concerns in any proceeding in which the safety or well-being of the child upon repatriation is at issue, participate in the Child Protection Advocate Service Plan meetings, and develop an understanding of the child's background. Criteria for the conclusion of the assignment of Child Protection Advocate are listed, and guiding principles of the Immigrant Child Advocacy Center are shared.

Title: Fire Safety Training Course for Resource Families.
Published: 2006
Available from: Alaska Center for Resource Families
http://www.acrf.org/
815 Second Avenue, Suite 101
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Document available online at: http://www.acrf.org/education/FireSafetyCourse/fabout.htm
Abstract: This course will explore how the resource family can be "fire smart" and "emergency ready." Families will learn about conducting effective fire drills, using a fire extinguisher correctly, identifying potentially dangerous firesetting behaviors in children, and promote general home safety. Alaska resource families will also learn what the foster care regulations require of licensed foster families regarding fire safety. (Author abstract)

Title: Child Protective Services: Does It Help or Harm Families?
Author(s): Jamieson, Marie.;Gonzalez, George.;Grayson, Cynthia.;Kuciemba, Kathleen.
Published: 2006
Available from: ResearchChannel
http://www.researchchannel.org/
17 Kane Hall, Box 353090
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 98195-3090
Document available online at: http://www.researchchannel.org/prog/displayevent.aspx?rID=6875&fID=573
Abstract: Four social work professionals discuss the status of their field, the problems they encounter, the solutions they seek and the actions they employ. Topics include Child Protective Services' referrals and placements due to child abuse and neglect, the ethnicity of children placed in out-of-home care, and innovative approaches utilized by social workers to help keep families together. (Author abstract)

Title: Children and Domestic Violence: A System of Safety in Clinical Practice.
Author(s): Cooley, Belinda.;Frazer, Craig.
Published: 2006
Journal Name: Australian Social Work
v. 59, 4, December 2006, p. 462-473.
Available from: Australian Association of Social Workers
http://www.aasw.asn.au
P.O. Box 4956
Kingston, ACT Australia
Abstract: The present paper provides a framework for working with children and families where there are domestic violence and child protection concerns. A model of practice developed by the St George Domestic Violence Counseling Service and the St George Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service in the South East Sydney and Illawarra Health Service (NSW, Australia) is outlined. The present paper includes a discussion on a recently developed service agreement between the two services and a case study focusing on a 'system of safety' when working with children. The present paper focuses on the effects of domestic violence on women and children by male perpetrators. We do not ignore that men may be victims of domestic violence; however, the authors recognize the gendered nature of domestic violence and the significant number of women and children who experience and live with domestic violence. (Author abstract, modified)

Title: When Legal Guardians Are Not Present: Enrolling Students on Their Own.
Published: 2006
Available from: National Center for Homeless Education at SERVE
http://www.serve.org/nche
P.O. Box 5367
Greensboro, NC 27435
Printable version (PDF): http://www.serve.org/nche/downloads/briefs/guardianship.pdf
Abstract: This brief explains reasons why children and youth may not be living with a legal guardian and the barriers they face in accessing educational services. Key provisions of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act that ensure educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness are reviewed, and best practices for addressing barriers to the enrollment of youth not living with a legal guardian are discussed. Excerpts from the law are also included. 4 references.

Title: Children Caring for Themselves and Child Neglect: When Do They Overlap?
Author(s): Zielewski, Erica H.;Malm, Karin.;Geen, Rob.
Published: 2006
Available from: Urban Institute
http://www.urban.org
2100 M Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037
Printable version (PDF): http://www.urban.org/UploadedPDF/311323_DP06-03.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses findings from an exploratory study that examined how local child welfare agencies respond when they receive reports of children who are taking care of themselves (self-care), including how they determine whether unsupervised children are victims of child neglect. The study included an extensive literature review, interviews and focus groups with child protective services staff in three local Washington, D.C., metropolitan social services agencies, and a review of 350 neglect intake referral forms in one local agency. Results from the study are shared on the prevalence and definitions of self-care, the importance of lack of supervision to local child protection agencies, reasons families leave children unattended, who reports cases involving self-care and inadequate supervision, protocols that guide caseworker decisions, caseworker practices, and child, parent, and case-specific factors that caseworkers consider when deciding how to respond to a case. Services that caseworkers offer are also discussed. Results indicate that there is likely an intersection between children caring for themselves and child neglect in the form of inadequate supervision. Differing guidelines and policies in the three localities, Washington, D.C., Prince George's County, Maryland, and Fairfax County, Virginia, mean that families investigated for child neglect in one jurisdiction might not be referred for investigation in another locality. They also reveal that agencies? approach and response to families that have been reported for inadequate supervision differ. Workers in all localities reported similar themes and issues that cause inadequate supervision from poverty, to poor judgment, to social isolation. Similarly, workers in each jurisdiction considered similar factors in determining whether to open a case or remove a child. Regardless of the differences in the intake process, once on the scene, workers noted a service-based approach to working with families and offered services ranging from child care to information about child care providers. 21 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: The Racial Geography of the Child Welfare System : Community Impact and Response. Final Conference Report.
Author(s): Roberts, Dorothy.;Hill, Leah.;Pitchal, Erik.
Published: 2006
Available from: Fordham University Interdisciplinary Center for Family and Child Advocacy
http://law.fordham.edu/interdisciplinary.htm
33 W. 60th Street, 3rd Floor
New York, NY 10023
Printable version (PDF): http://law.fordham.edu/documents/int-2RacialGeography.pdf
Abstract: This report summarizes the proceedings and presentations made at the Racial Geography of the Child Welfare System: Community Impact and Response conference held in the spring of 2006. The conference explored the disproportionality of minority children and families involved in the child welfare system and the impact on communities of a concentration of child welfare involvement. The morning session consisted of two plenary panels, followed by a keynote speech delivered by Professor Gerald Lopez. In the afternoon, participants met in small working groups led by a facilitator. This report provides an edited transcript of the conference proceedings and describes potential research projects, legal strategies, and community initiatives proposed during the working group sessions. The first panel examined the many ways in which disproportionality might impact community life. The panel began with the story of one family's experience of feeling invaded and discusses how the concentration of child welfare authorities throughout communities of color might impact how family members relate to each other and others in their communities. Other panelists provided insight from experiences with the criminal justice system and the environmental justice system to explore similar patterns of impact resulting from disproportionality. There was also a presentation focused on the experience of foster parents and caretakers within communities where over-representation is prominent. The second panel focused on the response of communities with first-hand experience of the racial geography phenomenon. The presentations further acknowledged the impact of racial geography and explored promising possibilities for making positive change. In the afternoon, participants were divided into five working groups that focused on: legal strategies, research, the education system, legislation/policy, and community based social services. Summaries are provided of the findings of the groups and their recommendations for addressing the racial geography of the child welfare system.

Title: Improving the Well-Being of Our Children: Closing the Gap Between Research and Policy.
Author(s): Freundlich, Madelyn.
Published: 2005
Available from: Casey Family Services
http://www.caseyfamilyservices.org/
127 Church Street
New Haven, CT 06510
Printable version (PDF): http://www.caseyfamilyservices.org/pdfs/casey_yale_report.pdf
Abstract: This report is derived from a symposium held on April 8, 2005, that brought together a multidisciplinary group to explore ways to deepen the synergy between research and policy and improve outcomes for children, youth, and families. The symposium focused on research efforts in three critical areas: early childhood development and education, supporting youth who are transitioning from foster care, and universal health coverage for children. The report summarizes panel discussions in each of the three areas and then identifies cross-cutting themes. The section on supporting youth transitioning from foster care discusses different types of research efforts that have been used to assess youth transition, including the use of administrative data, longitudinal outcome data on risk and protective factors that impact successful transition, and program specific evaluations. Research needs are identified and include research that examines the impact of foster care financing on research into well-being, permanence and permanent connections for youth, and the impact of incentives at both the systems level and at the individual level. The need to clearly communicate research findings to State legislators and develop working relationships with them is stressed.

Title: Adoption and Guardianship Preparation Training for Alaska's Resource Families. Section One, The State of Alaska Child Protection System and Permanency Through Adoption and Guardianship.
Published: 2005
Available from: Alaska Center for Resource Families
http://www.acrf.org/
815 Second Avenue, Suite 101
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acrf.org/education/Current/AdoptOne.pdf
Abstract: This self study course will help to prepare you for and teach you about basic processes of adoption and guardianship of children who are in the custody of the State of Alaska, due to child abuse and neglect. (Author abstract)

Title: Unaccompanied Homeless Youth.
Published: 2005
Available from: National Center for Homeless Education at SERVE
http://www.serve.org/nche
P.O. Box 5367
Greensboro, NC 27435
Printable version (PDF): http://www.serve.org/nche/downloads/briefs/youth.pdf
Abstract: This brief explains the circumstances of unaccompanied homeless youth and the barriers they face in accessing educational services. Key provisions of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act that ensure educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness are reviewed, and strategies for identifying eligible youth, disseminating information about McKinney-Vento, developing enrollment procedures, ensuring appropriate educational services, and assisting with non-educational needs of unaccompanied youth are discussed. 4 references.

Title: Risk Management. (Chapter 21 in The Jossey-Bass Handbook of Nonprofit Leadership and Management.)
Author(s): Herman, Melanie.
Published: 2004
Available from: Jossey-Bass Publishers
http://www.josseybass.com
350 Sansome St.
San Francisco, CA 94104
Abstract: The intangible and tangible benefits of risk management in nonprofit organizations are reviewed, and information is provided on starting a risk management program, the steps in the risk management process, strategies for applying a risk management framework, volunteer liability and risk management, and the role of insurance in a risk management program. 2 exhibits.

Title: Male Offenders in Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Systems
Author(s): Aguilar, Jemel.;Abrams, Laura.
Published: 2004
Available from: University of Minnesota, School of Social Work
http://cehd.umn.edu/ssw/
105 Peters Hall
1404 Gortner Ave
St. Paul, MN 55108
Document available online at: http://cehd.umn.edu/SSW/cascw/research/learningModules/maleOffenders/#synopsis
Abstract: Recent research indicates that maltreated children are disproportionately at risk for delinquency involvement and continuing their involvement into adulthood. In 2001, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) redirected efforts toward children in both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems by encouraging research on this topic as well as improved practice with these youths. Using interview data collected during an ethnographic research study of identity, treatment, and behavior change in Minnesota juvenile correctional facilities, this curriculum module provides information about the problem of youth who are dually involved in child welfare and juvenile justice systems of care. This module can be used for a child welfare, methods, or policy courses. This module contains supplemental training materials such as: Research synopsis; Internet resources about dual system youth; Psychosocial case study of a young male offender; Discussion questions; and Citations and Articles (Author abstract)

Title: The Jossey-Bass Handbook of Nonprofit Leadership and Management.
Author(s): Herman, Robert D.
Published: 2004
Available from: Jossey-Bass Publishers
http://www.josseybass.com
350 Sansome St.
San Francisco, CA 94104
Abstract: The Jossey-Bass Handbook of Nonprofit Leadership and Management offers a comprehensive and in-depth description of the most effective leadership and management practices that can be applied throughout a nonprofit organization. This second edition of the best-selling handbook brings together the leading experts in the nonprofit field to discuss the current knowledge and trends of effective practice in all phases of nonprofit organization leadership and management. This thoroughly revised edition is based on the most up-to-date research, theory, and experience. It offers practical advice on every aspect of managing nonprofit organizations, including board development, strategic planning, lobbying, marketing, government contracting, volunteer programs, fund-raising, financial accounting, compensation and benefits programs, and risk management. In addition, this new edition examines emerging topics of interest such as strategic alliances and finding and keeping the right employees. (Author abstract)

Title: Facts on Kids in South Dakota : Families and Fathers.
Published: 2002
Available from: South Dakota KIDS COUNT
http://www.usd.edu/sdkidscount/
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD 57069
Printable version (PDF): http://www.aecf.org/upload/publicationfiles/sd%20families%20-fathers.pdf
Abstract: This fact sheet is the ninth in the series of Fact on Kids in South Dakota. Each issue takes a look at the specific indicator of child well-being. The focus on this issue is on families and fathers. To grow up safe and healthily children today needs support from the school, the community and most importantly their family. (Author abstract)

Title: Barriers to Effective Child Protection in a Multicultural Society.
Author(s): Harran, Evender.
Published: 2002
Journal Name: Child Abuse Review
v. 11, p. 411-414
Available from: International Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN)
http://www.ispcan.org/
245 W. Roosevelt Road, Building 6, Suite 39
West Chicago, IL 60185
Printable version (PDF): http://www.ispcan.org/documents/VID/Barriers%20to%20eff%20CP%20in%20multicult%20soc%20CAR.pdf
Abstract: This commentary on a previous article discusses the difficulties child welfare professionals may have in understanding cultural differences and assessing risk in culturally diverse families. The lack of effective multiagency partnerships is noted, and a list of barriers to effective child protection is provided. Child welfare professionals are also warned not to use a cultural relativist approach when ensuring child safety and well-being.

Title: Child Protection Program Logic Models for Supervisors.
Published: 2002
Available from: Minnesota Department of Human Services
http://www.dhs.state.mn.us/
444 Lafayette Road North
St Paul, MN 55155
Printable version (PDF): http://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/groups/county_access/documents/pub/dhs_id_009140.pdf
Abstract: One of the strategies in Minnesota's program improvement plan was to develop a guide for supervisors which focused on best practice in quality assurance. The Child Protection Program Logic Models for Supervisors were developed by department staff with an advisory group of county supervisors. The program logic models in this document present specific program overviews in the areas of Screening, Assessment, and Case Management. An agency could use these program logic models as: < A tool to provide new staff with an overview of each child protection program and demonstrate how these programs are integrated and designed to address core child protection decision points. < An approach to identifying and evaluating the effectiveness of both agency resources and external community resources. < A structure for identifying agency child protection outputs or products and creating a responsive quality assurance system that reinforces consistent and high quality service delivery. < A method of clarifying desired program outcomes and identifying data sources that serve as accurate outcome measures. < A guide for directed case consultation, with emphasis on best practice for quality assurance. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Group Care for Children and Adolescents.
Published: 2002
Available from: KU ScholarWorks
http://kuscholarworks.ku.edu/dspace/
The University of Kansas Information Services
223 Strong Hall
1450 Jayhawk Blvd
Lawrence,, KS 66045
Printable version (PDF): https://kuscholarworks.ku.edu/dspace/bitstream/1808/3873/1/bestpracticesreport3.pdf
Abstract: This report presents the findings of a study that compared the outcomes of foster care group homes and family foster care. Specifically, the study examined whether there is any empirical literature that supports the best practices idea that family foster care is better than group home care, whether there is empirical literature that says some certain types of children do better in group homes than in family foster homes, and if group homes might be better for some children, which types of group home programs have been shown to be effective for which types of children. Data was analyzed from 11 empirical studies appearing in 12 articles from 1983 through 2001. The studies included an analysis of findings, published in 2001, that includes six outcome studies from 1982 to 1998 and 10 additional studies published from 1982-2001. Findings strongly support the best practices idea that family foster care is better for children than group home care. Results from the study also refute the idea that multi-problem youth can be better served in residential group care, and indicate three residential programs have some empirical support: the Teaching Family Model, the Boys Home Model, and the REPARE Model. One new model, Schema, also shows promise. A chart illustrates the findings from the 11 studies. 28 references.

Title: Interagency Information Sharing Guidelines for Organisations Involved in Care and Protection of Children.
Published: 2002
Available from: New Zealand Department of Child, Youth, and Family Services
http://www.cyf.govt.nz/
Ground Floor, Bowen State Building
Bowen Street
PO Box 2620
Wellington, New Zealand
Printable version (PDF): http://www.cyf.govt.nz/documents/info_sharing.pdf
Abstract: The primary purpose of these Guidelines is to assist organisations to share information when appropriate to improve the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. (Author abstract)

Title: A Guide to New York's Child Protective Services System. 2001 Revised Edition.
Author(s): Silver, Sheldon.;Green, Roger.
Published: 2001
Available from: New York State Assembly
http://assembly.state.ny.us/
Assembly Public Information Department
Legislative Office Building
Room 202
Albany, NY 12248
Document available online at: http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/Children/20011016/
Printable version (PDF): http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/Children/20011016/index.pdf
Abstract: This handbook was written to serve as a guide through the complex structure of New York State's Child Protective Services System. In addition, this handbook is designed to expand awareness of child abuse and highlight the process that occurs when child abuse is reported. (Author abstract)

Title: Transition from Care: The Status and Outcomes of Youth Who Have Aged Out of the Foster Care System in Clark County, Nevada.
Published: 2001
Available from: Nevada KIDS COUNT
http://kidscount.unlv.edu/
4505 Maryland Pkwy, Box 456002
Las Vegas, NV 89154-6002
Printable version (PDF): http://kidscount.unlv.edu/2001/transition_fostercare.pdf
Abstract: A study investigated the status and outcome of former foster youth in Nevada by interviewing 75 youth between September 2000 and January 2001 that had been out of foster care for a minimum of 6 months. The average age of the youth at the time of the interview was 20 and the average time spent out of foster care was 2.5 years. Findings indicate that since leaving foster care, close to half of the youth experienced situations indicative of an unsuccessful transition to independence: not having a place to live, being incarcerated or spending time in jail, failure to obtain regular employment, engaging in the illegal selling of drugs or prostitution, or being victimized. Program and policy recommendations are made. 3 tables.

Title: Administrative Ethics. (Chapter 4 in The Handbook of Social Welfare Management.)
Author(s): Reamer, Frederic G.
Published: 2000
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Abstract: The evolution of professional, administrative, and social work ethics is explored and ethical dilemmas in administration, strategies for ethical decision making, and ethics risk management are discussed. Key elements for professionals to consider when engaged in ethical decision making are addressed and include: conflicting values and duties, the use of moral and ethical theory to analyze ethical dilemmas, and the use of ethics consultation. 76 references.

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