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Safety - Results (36 Publications)

Title: Encyclopedia of Interpersonal Violence. (2 Volumes)
Author(s): Renzetti, Claire M.;Edleson, Jeffrey L.
Published: 2008
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Abstract: This 2-volume set is designed to be used as a resource for members of the general public who are interested in learning more about various aspects of the problem of interpersonal violence, students who are studying about interpersonal violence, and practitioners and clinicians in the field. It is intended to provide accurate, research-supported information to clarify critical issues and to educate the public about different forms of interpersonal violence, their incidence and prevalence, theoretical explanations, public policy initiatives, and prevention and intervention strategies. The volumes include over 500 entries arranged alphabetically and written by experts on the specific topic being addressed. A reader's guide is included that lists the articles into 12 general topical categories: children and youth; civil and criminal legal systems; general interpersonal violence; intervention and prevention programs; legislation; organizations and agencies; racial/ethnic and cross-cultural issues; research methods and data collection instruments; sexual violence and abuse; syndromes, disorders, and other mental health issues; theories and theoretical perspectives; and violence between intimates/family violence. At the end of Volume 2, appendices are provided that include information on current data sets, regional and national organizations specializing in various dimensions of interpersonal violence, and relevant Web sites. (Author abstract modified)

Title: America's Children in Brief: Key National Indicators of Well-Being, 2008.
Published: 2008
Available from: Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics
http://www.childstats.gov/
3311 Toledo Road, Room 6114

Hyattsville, MD 20782
Printable version (PDF): http://www.childstats.gov/pdf/ac2008/ac_08.pdf
Abstract: This report presents statistics on the well-being of children in the United States. It begins with demographic information about American children that indicates there were 73.9 million children in the United States in 2007, 1.5 million more than in 2000. Data show however, that children continue to decrease as a proportion of the total U.S. population. Information is then provided on indicators that are organized into seven sections, each focusing on a domain relevant to children's lives: family and social environment, economic circumstances, health care, physical environment and safety, behavior, education, and health. Key findings indicate the nation's fourth and eighth graders scored higher in reading and mathematics than they did during their last national assessment, there were increases in the adolescent birth rate and the proportion of infants born at low birthweight, and there were decreases in childhood deaths from injuries and in the percentage of eighth graders who smoked daily. Numerous tables and figures.

Title: Calling in Abuse: How Domestic Violence Perpetrators are Using the Child Welfare System to Continue Their Abuse.
Author(s): Gotbaum, Betsy.;Browne, Daniel.;Woltman, Mark.;Tumarkin, Laurel.
Published: 2008
Available from: The Public Advocate's Office
http://pubadvocate.nyc.gov/
1 Centre Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10007
Printable version (PDF): http://pubadvocate.nyc.gov/policy/documents/DVACSReportFinal-WebJuly2008.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses findings from a survey of domestic violence service providers that investigated whether false reporting by domestic violence abusers is a widespread problem in New York City. Survey responses were received from professionals from 80 separate organizations working with victims of domestic violence, including social/case workers, lawyers and other legal services professionals, and domestic violence shelter staff. Respondents reported that false reports of child abuse or neglect from batterers are widespread. Seventy-two percent of respondents indicated that they have had cases in which a batterer filed a false report, and 67% reported that at least one in every 10 of their cases involve batterers falsely accusing their victims of child maltreatment. The survey also found that 95% of providers had never dealt with a case in which the batterer was actually prosecuted for false reporting. In addition to their survey responses, domestic violence service providers submitted recommendations on how to address the problem of false reporting of child abuse and neglect by abusers. Recommendations include: inform the public that falsely reporting child abuse and neglect is a crime, conduct better screening of anonymous reports of abuse and neglect, create a mechanism by which individuals who believe they are the targets of malicious false reports can complain, more aggressively prosecute those who knowingly file false reports, and increase penalties for knowingly filing false reports. 17 references.

Title: Acceptability of a Stage-Matched Expert System Intervention for Domestic Violence Offenders. (Article in Special Issue on Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence.)
Author(s): Levesque, Deborah A.;Driskell, Mary-Margaret.;Prochaska, Janice M.;Prochaska, James O.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims
v. 23, 4, 2008, p. 432-445
Available from: Springer Publishing Company
http://www.springerpub.com/
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Abstract: Most interventions for men who batter are standardized and "one-size-fits-all," neglecting individual differences in readiness to change. A multimedia expert system intervention based on the transtheoretical model (the "stage model") was developed as an adjunct to traditional court-mandated programs. The expert system assesses stage of change, decisional balance, self-efficacy, and processes of change and provides immediate individualized stage-matched feedback designed to increase readiness to end the violence. Fifty-eight male batterer intervention program clients were invited by agency staff to complete an expert system session and an evaluation of the program; 33 men were recruited at program intake and the remainder from ongoing groups. Responses to the intervention were very positive. For example, 87% of participants reported that they found the program to be easy to use, and 98% said it could probably or definitely help them change their attitudes or behaviors. Findings provide encouraging evidence of the acceptability of this stage-matched approach to intervention for domestic violence offenders. (Author abstract)

Title: Bringing the Greenbook to Life: A Resource Guide for Communities.
Author(s): Goodmark, Leigh.;Rosewater, Ann.;Rosewater, JD.
Published: 2008
Available from: Greenbook Initiative
http://thegreenbook.ncjfcj.org/
National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges
Family Violence Department
P.O. Box 8970
Reno, NV 89507
Printable version (PDF): http://www.thegreenbook.info/documents/BJA.pdf
Abstract: This resource is designed for communities seeking to develop interventions that will improve their responses to families suffering both domestic violence and child maltreatment. The Greenbook, a publication released in 1999 by the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, explored the links between domestic violence and child abuse and neglect, and promoted collaboration among child welfare systems, domestic violence advocates, and dependency courts in order to serve battered mothers and their children more effectively. The guide explores a number of the major policy and practice issues confronted by the six federally funded communities that have implemented the Greenbook: El Paso County, Colorado; Grafton County, New Hampshire; St. Louis County, Missouri; the city of San Francisco and Santa Clara County, California; and Lane County, Oregon. It details the various ways in which the communities have attempted to address collaborative issues; and, where protocols, tools, and exercises exist, includes them, along with commentary on using them successfully. The guide is organized into eight sections that address: strategies used to foster understanding between agencies; laying the foundation for the development of relationships by establishing trust, dealing with power differentials, assessing commitment, and managing conflict; developing collaboration; assessing system readiness; confronting issues of race, class, and gender; making changes in practice consistent with the Greenbook principles; and involving clients in the system to be part of conversations about changing practice and policy. The final sections discuss the success of project sites and continuing challenges as they seek greater collaboration. 40 references.

Title: Kinship Placements: An Integrative Approach (Chapter 10 in Foster Care Therapist Handbook: Relational Approaches to the Children and Their Families).
Author(s): Crittenden, Patricia McKinsey.;Farnfeld, Steve.
Published: 2008
Available from: Child Welfare League of America (CWLA)
http://www.cwla.org/
2345 Crystal Drive, Suite 250
Arlington, VA 22202
Abstract: Kinship care is explored as an important alternative to standard foster home placements and guidelines are offered to help case managers make decisions involving relative and nonrelative foster placements that will not only protect children in the short-term, but also promote their long-term development and the availability and goodwill of those adults who rear them. 41 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Combating a Family Culture of Violence (Chapter 16 in Foster Care Therapist Handbook: Relational Approaches to the Children and Their Families).
Author(s): Seita, John.
Published: 2008
Available from: Child Welfare League of America (CWLA)
http://www.cwla.org/
2345 Crystal Drive, Suite 250
Arlington, VA 22202
Abstract: This chapter describes how family therapy in both the birth and foster families can contain aggressive behavior and provide a different orientation for foster children and their families. The predisposition of foster children to everyday violence is explored, and therapy that focuses on cultivating resiliency in individuals and social systems is explained. The use of the Connectedness, Continuity, Dignity, and Opportunity model is also discussed. 16 references.

Title: Creating Partnerships between Behavioral Health Providers and Child Welfare.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare
http://www.nccbh.org
12300 Twinbrook Parkway, Suite 320
Rockville, MD 20852
Printable version (PDF): http://www.thenationalcouncil.org/galleries/policy-file/Substance%20Use%20and%20Child%20Welfare.pdf
Abstract: This fact sheet discusses the co-occurrence of parental substance abuse and substance dependence with mental illness, and the need for community based partnerships between behavioral health providers and child welfare professionals. It reviews the research results on the efficacy of substance abuse treatment and the impact of parental drug abuse on the child welfare system. Gender specific treatment considerations are explained, as well as the benefits of shared planning and service delivery. 11 references.

Title: Evaluation Results and Systems of Care: A Review. (Chapter 2 in The System of Care Handbook: Transforming Mental Health Services for Children, Youth, and Families).
Author(s): Manteuffel, Brigitte.;Stephens, Robert L.;Brashears, Freda.;Krivelyova, Anna.;Fisher, Sylvia K.;
Published: 2008
Available from: Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
www.brookespublishing.com
Post Office Box 10624
Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
Abstract: Results are shared from a national evaluation of systems of care implemented in 126 communities funded by the federal Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services to Children and Their Families Program. Findings indicate children experience reductions in their behavioral and emotional problems, increase their strengths, do better in school, and are less likely to be involved with the juvenile justice system after receiving services in systems of care. 8 figures and numerous references.

Title: Early Childhood Assessment: Why, What, and How?
Author(s): Snow, Catherine E.;Van Hemel, Susan B.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Academies Press
http://www.nap.edu/
500 Fifth Street NW
Lockbox 285
Washington, DC 20055
Document available online at: http://books.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12446
Abstract: In 2006, Congress requested that the National Research Council conduct a study of developmental outcomes and appropriate assessment of young children. With funding from the Office of Head Start in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the specific charge to this committee was the identification of important outcomes for children from birth to age 5 and the quality and purposes of different techniques and instruments for developmental assessments. Part 1 of this report discusses the methodology of the study, purposes of assessment, and the history of early childhood standards. Part 2 concentrates on what should be assessed and why. Chapters discuss screening assessments, domains typically assessed in young children and approaches to assessing them, and methods for assessing the quality of early childhood education environments. Part 3 concentrates on assessment methods and includes chapters that discuss psychometric issues in assessment, assessing ethnic minority and language-minority children and children with disabilities, and the implementation of assessments. The final part includes a discussion on the need for systems of assessment and how that need might be satisfied and provides the committee's guidance on assessment, including a proposed research agenda. Guidelines are presented for assessment related to four issues: purposes, domains and measures, implementation, and systems.

Title: Special Issue on Adolescent Illegal Sexual Behavior (AISB).
Published: 2008
Journal Name: APSAC Advisor : American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children.
v. 20, 2, Spring 2008, p. 1-27
Available from: American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children.
http://www.apsac.org
PO Box 30669
Charleston, SC 29417
Abstract: This special issue focuses on adolescent illegal sexual behavior (AISB). It begins with a commentary that discusses issues facing practitioners and policymakers when serving youth with AISB, the complex relationships between scientific evidence, clinical practice, and policy development, and the dangers of applying findings from research on adult sexual offenders to AISB. The following article summaries the current state of knowledge regarding AISB, the differences between AISB and adult offenders, strategies for assessment and treatment, and ethic issues when working with AISB. Issues in developing a valid typology of youth with illegal sexual behaviors are described in the third article, as well as the challenges encountered in attempting to use a typology to inform interventions and assessment tools that have been researchers for use with AISB. The fourth article reviews research on the characteristics and treatment needs of girls with AISB. The final article highlights the use of multisystemic therapy (MST) as a treatment for youth with AISB and adaptations to MST that are needed. The issue also includes a summary of research findings from different journals related to factors predicting adolescent sexual reoffending, an ecological approach to defining and assessing sexually abusive behavior, the treatment of juvenile sexual offenders, predictors of adolescent male sexually offending behavior, and rehabilitation. An update of federal legislation is also provided. Numerous references.

Title: Weaving a Safety Net: Integrating Injury and Violence Prevention into Maternal and Child Health Programs.
Published: 2008
Available from: Child Safety Network
http://www.csn.org/
Education Development Center
55 Chapel Street

Newton, MA 02458-1060
Printable version (PDF): http://www.childrenssafetynetwork.org/publications_resources/PDF/programplanning/WeavingaSafetyNet.pdf
Abstract: This publication explores how injury and violence prevention (IVP) activities can be integrated into Maternal and Child Health (MCH) programs and services at both the State and local levels. It begins by explaining why MCH programs should be interested in IVP initiatives and strategies for identifying opportunities for integrating IVP activities into existing MCH programs. Examples are then provided of integrating IVP activities into infant and child health programs, adolescent health programs, programs serving children with special health care needs, and women?s health programs. A case study is then presented that describes how IVP activities were integrated into MCH programs in Massachusetts. Finally, information is given on the technical assistance available from the Children's Safety Network to help States and localities integrated IVP into MCH programs and services. 20 references.

Title: Another Look at the National Study on Differential Response in Child Welfare. ( Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Kaplan, Caren.;Merkel-Holguin, Lisa.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 5-21
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: A survey of 27 States and 2 counties found 15 States incorporated an alternative response to reports of suspected maltreatment in their child protective systems, had policies or practice protocols which formally guide the implementation of and child welfare practice in a differential response system, and prohibited assignments of reports of sexual abuse, serious physical injury, or child fatalities to the noninvestigation assessment response pathway. A total of 11 States indicated that there is statewide implementation of their alternative response approach. 2 tables and 7 references.

Title: The Parent Support Outreach Program: Minnesota's Early Intervention Track. ( Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Thompson, David.;Siegel, Gary L.;Loman, L. Anthony.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 23-29
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: This article highlights the Parent Support Outreach Program in Minnesota, prevention and early intervention program focused on families who have children under the age of 6 and who have been reported for child maltreatment concerns but screened out from a formal child protection response. A total of 4,042 families in 38 participating counties have been offered services and 38% have accepted. Most (92%) of the families reported that the services they received were what they needed and 2 out of 3 felt more able to care for their children. 8 references.

Title: Implementation of Differential Response in Ethnically Diverse Neighborhoods. ( Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Conley, Amy.;Berrick, Jill Duer.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 30-38
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: This article highlights the Another Road to Safety (ARS) program in Alameda County, California, a program that uses a differential response model to screen risk at the county child maltreatment hotline and to offer services to families who are screened out of traditional investigation, have a child under 5, and reside in at-risk neighborhoods. Interviews with 16 administrators and 12 staff members indicate the program has been adapted into order to work within the context of existing resources, and the cultural, geographic, and economic milieu of families. 18 references.

Title: Implementation of California's Differential Response Model in Small Counties. (Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Bagdasaryan, Sofya.;Furman, Walter.;Franke, Todd.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 40-56
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: This article describes the implementation of differential response programs in 11 small, mostly rural, counties in Northern California. It discusses case identification and risk assessment, components of differential response systems and referral methods, and system response and service delivery. Data is reported that indicate counties have made much progress in implementing the differential response model. 2 figures and 20 references.

Title: Outcomes for Children with Allegations of Neglect Who Receive Alternative Response and Traditional Investigations: Findings for NCANDS. (Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Ortiz, Mary Jo.;Shusterman, Gila R.;Fluke, John D.;
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 57-70
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: A study used data from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System to determine whether children in alternative response systems were kept as safe as those receiving traditional investigations. Data from five States (n=93,576 children) indicates children in alterative responses were kept about as safe as children receiving traditional investigations. Trajectory analysis demonstrates that approximately 17-19% of all of the children experience a rereport of child maltreatment within a year. 2 figures, 1 table, and 25 references.

Title: Development and Field Testing of a Family Assessment Scale for Use in Child Welfare Practice Settings Utilizing Differential Response. (Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Kirk, Raymond S.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 71-87
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: This article presents the results of a project that developed and field tested the North Carolina Family Assessment Scale for General Services (NCFAS-G), a comprehensive family assessment instrument designed for differential response practice settings. The field test was conducted in a large, urban county with 123 families including 252 children. Results indicate the NCFAS-G is reliable when used by trained differential response workers serving moderate-risk families. 4 tables, 8 figures, and 14 references.

Title: The Intersection Between Differential Response and Family Involvement Approaches. (Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Christenson, Betty.;Curran, Scott.;DeCook, Kelli.;Maloney, Scott.;Merkel-Holguin, Lisa.;
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 88-95
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: This article explores the connection between different response and family involvement approaches in decision making. It analyzes the underpinning values of these two reforms, discusses the practical and philosophical connections between them, and profiles Olmstead County, Minnesota's work in this area. Future practice and policy issues are considered. 2 figures, 1 table, and 3 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Six Principles of Partnership: Building and Sustaining System-Wide Change. (Journal article in Exploring Differential Response: One Pathway Toward Reforming Child Welfare.)
Author(s): Comer, Daniel P.;Vassar, Deborah.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 23, 1-2, p. 96-104
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Abstract: The following six principles of partnership for the Multiple Response System in the North Carolina Division of Social Services are discussed: everyone desires respect, everyone needs to be heard, everyone has strengths, judgments can wait, partners share power, and partnership is a process. The implementation of the Multiple Response System is described, as well as staff training and strategies for working respectfully with families. 2 figures and 2 references.

Title: Special Issue on Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence
Author(s): Murphy, Christopher M.;Maiuro, Roland D.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims
v. 23, 4, 2008, p. 411-536
Available from: Springer Publishing Company
http://www.springerpub.com/
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Abstract: This issue focuses on effective interventions for treating perpetrators and victims of family violence. The first article describes using the transtheoretical model (TTM) of behavior change to explain the process of change in victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) longitudinally, and factors that may relate to staging and stage progression. The acceptability of a stage-matched expert system intervention for domestic violence offenders is then considered, followed by an article on assessing the readiness to change, partner violence subtypes, and treatment outcomes among men in treatment for partner assault. The next article describes stages of change in batterers and their response to treatment, and a fifth article explores whether the TTM can predict attrition in domestic violence treatment programs. A study of 302 men in five domestic violence treatment program found the TTM constructs did not predict dropout. The next article considers the development and factor structure of the Revised Safe At Home instrument, an assessment designed to assess individuals' readiness to change their IPV behaviors. Confirmatory factor analysis using multisite data from 281 men supported a four-factor model that assessed: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation/action, and maintenance stages. The final article discusses important applications of the TTM and motivational enhancement strategies for addressing IPV, conceptual and empirical challenges, and clinical applications. Numerous references.

Title: Illinois Child Endangerment Risk Assessment Protocol FY08 Annual Evaluation.
Author(s): Fuller, Tamara L.;Nieto, Martin.
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/CERAP_FY08.pdf
Abstract: Recent concerns related to Illinois' failure to meet the national standard for maltreatment recurrence in the federal Child and Family Service Review (CFSR) have prompted some to question the utility of the safety assessment protocol (the CERAP) that has been in use in Illinois since 1995. By changing the safety outcome examined in the current CERAP evaluation to match that used in the federal CFSR (i.e., 6-month maltreatment recurrence rather than the 60-day recurrence used in previous reports), we can begin to examine the relationship between CERAP use in the field, other child protective services practices, and maltreatment recurrence. The current evaluation attempted to provide useful information for the Department's efforts of reform in this area by answering the following questions: 1) Does maltreatment recurrence as defined in the CFSR vary by region in Illinois? 2) If so, can regional differences in investigation practices be identified as possible points of policy reform? And 3) Are these regional differences in practice related in a reliable way to maltreatment recurrence? (Author abstract)

Title: Readiness to Change, Partner Violence Subtypes, and Treatment Outcomes Among Men in Treatment for Partner Assault. (Article in Special Issue on Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence.)
Author(s): Eckhardt, Christopher.;Holtzworth-Munroe, Amy.;Norlander, Bradley.;Sibley, Ashley.;Cahill, Melissa.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims
v. 23, 4, 2008, p. 446-475
Available from: Springer Publishing Company
http://www.springerpub.com/
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Abstract: Men court-mandated to attend a batterer's intervention program (BIP) were evaluated to determine whether pre-BIP readiness to change and the presence of partner violence subtypes predicted BIP completion, criminal recidivism, and postadjudication partner violence 6 months post-BIP. Of the 199 subject sample, 40% did not complete BIP. Four readiness-to-change clusters were found, with most men (76%) reporting change-resistant stages-of-change profiles. The partner violence typology reported by Holtzworth-Munroe et al. (2000) was supported with clustering into four subtypes: family only (FO), low-level antisocial (LLA), borderline/dysphoric (BD), and generally violent/antisocial (GVA). BIP completion was predicted by violence subtype (with BD and GVA more likely to drop out) but not by pre-BIP readiness to change. Men rearrested scored higher on the precontemplative stage of change and were more likely to be in the BD and GVA subtypes. Implications for counseling strategies are discussed. (Author abstract)

Title: Stages of Change in Batterers and Their Response to Treatment. (Article in Special Issue on Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence.)
Author(s): Alexander, Pamela C.;Morris, Eugene.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims
v. 23, 4, 2008, p. 476-492
Available from: Springer Publishing Company
http://www.springerpub.com/
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Abstract: One important dimension of individual differences among batterers is their readiness to change. According to the transtheoretical model (Prochaska & DiClemente, 1984), all individuals go through precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance before a change in behavior is accomplished. The applicability of this model to intimate partner violence was assessed by administering the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA) scales (with reference to their domestic violent behavior) to 210 court-ordered male batterers. Their responses were clustered, and two clusters were derived and then compared on other measures. As hypothesized, cluster 2 individuals (characterized by a profile of URICA scale scores suggesting an earlier stage of change) self-reported less initial distress (depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse), less violence, and fewer problems with anger than cluster 1 individuals (characterized by URICA scale sores suggesting a later stage of change), although partners reported no difference in violence perpetrated by the two clusters. Cluster 1 individuals evidenced greater improvement in self-reported depression, anxiety, and anger control. Strategies to engage the more resistant cluster 2 individuals as well as suggestions for future research are considered. (Author abstract)

Title: The Revised Safe At Home Instrument for Assessing Readiness to Change Intimate Partner Violence. (Article in Special Issue on Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence.)
Author(s): Begun, Audrey L.;Brondino, Michael J.;Bolt, Daniel.;Weinstein, Benjamin.;Strodthoff, Terri.;Shelley, Gene.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims
v. 23, 4, 2008, p. 508-524
Available from: Springer Publishing Company
http://www.springerpub.com/
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Abstract: This article describes the development and factor structure of the Revised Safe At Home instrument, a 35-item self-report measure designed to assess individuals' readiness to change their intimate partner violence behaviors. Seven new items have been added, representing content specific to the Maintenance stage, and other items have been revised to strengthen the assessment of earlier stages and address gender concerns. Confirmatory factor analysis using multisite data (two sites, a total of 281 men at intake) supported the conclusion that a four-factor model (Precontemplation, Contemplation, Preparation/Action, and Maintenance stages) was consistent with the observed covariances. A high degree of correlation between the Preparation/Action and Maintenance scales was observed, but subsequent testing indicated a need to treat the two as distinct factors in the model. It is recommended that scoring include only 31 items that perform well. (Author abstract)

Title: Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence: Summary and Commentary. (Article in Special Issue on Understanding and Facilitating the Change Process in Perpetrators and Victims of Intimate Partner Violence.)
Author(s): Murphy, Christopher M.;Maiuro, Roland D.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Violence and Victims
v. 23, 4, 2008, p. 525-536
Available from: Springer Publishing Company
http://www.springerpub.com/
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Abstract: This article discusses applications of the transtheoretical model (TTM) of behavior change to describe the process of change in victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). It summarizes research findings on stages of change in victims and perpetrators of domestic violence and abuse, motivational interviewing with abuse perpetrators, and the readiness to change in women batterers compared to men charged with abuse. Conceptual and empirical challenges relating to TTM are also explored, as well as clinical applications. 39 references.

Title: Adolescents Involved with Child Welfare: A Transition to Adulthood.
Published: 2008
Available from: ACF Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE)
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W.
Washington, DC 20447
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/abuse_neglect/nscaw/reports/transition_adult/transition_adult.pdf
Abstract: In 1999 the Administration on Children, Youth and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, undertook the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW) to learn about children and families coming in contact with the child welfare system (CWS). The sample, which represents the population of children and families who entered CWS services within a 15-month period (October 1999 through December 2000), included 5,501 children (aged 0 to 14 at the time of sampling) from 92 child welfare agencies nationwide. The first national longitudinal survey of its kind, NSCAW gathers information about children's safety, living-situation permanency, well-being, and services after a maltreatment investigation by child protective services. This is the first report to focus on adolescents transitioning to young adulthood, presenting findings from the NSCAW Wave 5 follow-up. It provides information about 620 young adults who were adolescents (12 to 15 years old) at baseline. (Author abstract)

Title: Building Systems of Care: Critical Processes and Structures (Chapter 4 in The System of Care Handbook: Transforming Mental Health Services for Children, Youth, and Families).
Author(s): Pires, Sheila A.
Published: 2008
Available from: Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
www.brookespublishing.com
Post Office Box 10624
Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
Abstract: This chapter discusses the role of process and structure in systems of care, identifies key elements of effective system-building processes, outlines the many functions that must be structured or restructured within systems of care, and discusses the impact of structure on the experience of stakeholders and the achievement of desired outcomes. 4 figures, 4 boxes, and 27 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Sustaining Systems of Care. (Chapter 8 in The System of Care Handbook: Transforming Mental Health Services for Children, Youth, and Families).
Author(s): Stroul, Beth A.;Manteuffel, Brigette.;
Published: 2008
Available from: Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
www.brookespublishing.com
Post Office Box 10624
Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
Abstract: A study surveyed key informants at 37 communities who received funding to develop and improve systems of care through the federal Community Mental Health Services for Children and Their Families Program (CMHS Program). Results indicate increases in the availability for behavioral aid services in homes, schools, and other settings; transition from residential treatment settings to community-based service settings; transition to adult services from services within the children's mental health system of care; medication monitoring; and substance abuse treatment. Only increases in behavioral aide services, however, achieved statistical significance. Lessons learned and recommendations are discussed. 10 tables and 16 references.

Title: Services for Youth in the Child Welfare System and Their Families in Systems of Care. (Chapter 22 in The System of Care Handbook: Transforming Mental Health Services for Children, Youth, and Families).
Author(s): McCarthy, Jan.;Rider, Frank.;Fawcett, Caraleen M.;Sparks, Steve.;
Published: 2008
Available from: Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
www.brookespublishing.com
Post Office Box 10624
Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
Abstract: This chapter presents an overview of the mental health needs of children and families involved with the child welfare system, and demonstrates the link between effective mental health services and the achievement of the three major child welfare system goals: safety, permanency, and well-being. A case study of the Arizona child welfare system is offered to illustrate how to work collaboratively across systems and families to build service capacity. 1 table and 41 references.

Title: From Early Involvement with Child Welfare Services to School Entry: A 5- to 6-Year Follow-Up of Infants in the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being: With Tables of 5- to 6-Year Follow-Up Results for Children Aged 1 to 4 at Baseline.
Published: 2008
Available from: ACF Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE)
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W.
Washington, DC 20447
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/abuse_neglect/nscaw/reports/early_involvement/early_involvement.pdf
Abstract: In 1999 the Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, undertook the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW) to learn about children and families coming in contact with the child welfare system (CWS). The sample, which represents the population of children and families that entered the CWS within a 15-month period (October 1999 to December 2000), comprises 5,501 children (aged 0 to 14 years) from 92 child welfare agencies nationwide. The first national longitudinal survey of its kind, NSCAW gathers information about children's safety, living-situation permanency, wellbeing, and services after a maltreatment investigation by child protective services. NSCAW has examined the experiences of children and families with the CWS, starting approximately 4 months after the completion of a CWS maltreatment investigation and following up 1½ years, 3 years, and 5 to 6 years later (in 2005 and 2006). This report provides information about 962 children who were infants (0 to 12 months old) when they first became involved in investigations for child abuse or neglect and whose caregivers participated at the 5- to 6-year follow-up. Some children's cases were closed after investigation; others had a case opened to child welfare services. Although the majority remained at home after investigation, others were removed from their homes. Five to 6 years after child protective services investigation, these children were 5 to 6 years old. This report is the first in a series presenting findings from the NSCAW 5- to 6-year follow-up. (Author abstract)

Title: Adolescents Involved with Child Welfare: A Transition to Adulthood.
Published: 2008
Available from: ACF Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE)
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W.
Washington, DC 20447
Document available online at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/abuse_neglect/nscaw/reports/adolescents_involved/adolescents_involved.html
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/abuse_neglect/nscaw/reports/adolescents_involved/adolescents_involved.pdf
Abstract: This brief provides information to enhance our understanding of the needs of young adults by addressing the following questions: (1) Who are the young adults who had contact with the CWS during adolescence? What types of maltreatment did they experience as adolescents? What risks did they face? What environments are these young adults living in by the time they are 18 to 21 years old? (2) How well are these young adults doing in terms of their physical, psychosocial, and emotional development? How does this development compare with that of young adults in the general population? (3) How are they transitioning to adulthood and integrating into society? How many have a job, and what types of work are they doing? For those who are parents, how are they doing in this new role? (4) What services do young adults need? What have they received? (Author abstract)

Title: From Early Involvement with Child Welfare Services to School Entry: Wave 5 Follow-Up of Infants in the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being.
Published: 2008
Available from: ACF Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE)
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W.
Washington, DC 20447
Document available online at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/abuse_neglect/nscaw/reports/wave_five_followup/wave_five_followup.html
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/abuse_neglect/nscaw/reports/wave_five_followup/wave_five_followup.pdf
Abstract: This brief provides information about 962 children who were infants (zero to 12 months old) when they first became involved in investigations for child abuse or neglect and whose caregivers participated at the Wave 5 follow-up. Some children's cases were closed after investigation; others had a case opened to CWS services. Although the majority remained at home after investigation, others were removed from their homes. Five to 6 years after child protective services investigation, these children were 5 to 6 years old. This brief is the first in a series presenting findings from the NSCAW Wave 5 follow-up, and addresses the following questions: (1) Who are the children who have had contact with the CWS during infancy? What types of maltreatment did they experience as infants? What risks did they face? What environments were these children living in by the time they were 5 to 6 years old? (2) How well have these children been doing in terms of their physical, psychosocial, cognitive, peer, and academic development? How does this development compare with that of other children? (3) How stable have the children's living situations been? Were they living in permanent homes by the time they were 5 to 6 years old? (4) What services do these children, caregivers, and families need? What have they received? (Author abstract)

Title: Aging Out of Foster Care and Legal Involvement: Toward a Typology of Risk.
Author(s): Vaughn, Michael G.;Shook, Jeffrey J.;McMillen, J. Curtis.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Social Service Review
v. 82, 3, September 2008, p. 419-446
Available from: University of Chicago Press
http://www.journals.uchicago.edu/SSR/
Journals Division
PO Box 37005
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: This article uses data from a study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health to explore variation in the risk of legal involvement among youths who have aged out of the child welfare system. Employing latent class analysis, it empirically derives subgroups of youths with common or shared characteristics of risk. The analyses identify four distinct subgroups: the low-risk, moderate-risk, high-risk externalizing psychopathology, and high-risk drug culture groups. Multinomial logistic regressions show that contextual and dispositional factors predict group membership. Attention to the factors that distinguish the groups may attenuate the risk for legal involvement for youths aging out of the child welfare system. (Author abstract)

Title: Planning for Your Children: A Resource to Help You Plan for Your Children While You Are in Jail or Prison.
Published: 2005
Available from: Shaening and Associates
http://www.shaening.com/
2319 Old Arroyo Chamiso
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Printable version (PDF): http://www.shaening.com/projectDocs/Planning%20for%20Your%20Children:%20A%20Resource%20to%20Help%20You%20Plan%20for%20Your%20Children%20While%20You%20are%20in%20Jail%20or%20Prison.pdf
Abstract: Designed for parents who are going to be incarcerated, this booklet provides suggestions for telling children about the incarceration when they are ages 0-2, 3-5, 6-11, and 12-18, and strategies for developing a plan to keep the children safe during the incarceration. Guidelines are given for selecting a caregiver.

Title: A Strategic Housing Plan for Special Needs Populations in Los Angeles County.
Published: 2005
Available from: Shelter Partnership
http://www.shelterpartnership.org/
523 West Sixth Street, Suite 616
Los Angeles, CA 90014-1224
Printable version (PDF): http://www.shelterpartnership.org/Common/Documents/studies/StratPlan3.pdf.pdf
Abstract: This report presents a two-year strategic housing plan to address the housing needs of special populations in Los Angeles County. The Plan focuses on the following three special needs groups: youth emancipated from the dependency and delinquency systems; homeless persons with mental illness; and persons living with HIV/AIDS. The Plan is divided into five sections and utilizes information from various sources, such as public planning documents, reports, academic journals, news articles, conference and workshop materials, and caseload information. The first section provides a recent composite of each special needs population in the County and includes information on emancipated foster youth, homeless persons with mental illness, and persons living with HIV. The following section on barriers to accessing and maintaining housing, identifies universal barriers and barriers unique to special needs populations. This section also includes responses from the series of County-sponsored focus groups conducted with program administrators, nonprofit housing and service providers, and consumers of County services. The third section presents an inventory of housing in Los Angeles County that is targeted to each of the three special needs populations. The next section highlights the various public funding programs that are available for providing housing and supportive services to special needs populations in Los Angeles County through formula grants and competitive grants. The Plan concludes with recommendations that offer specific strategies that the County and the Special Needs Housing Alliance should pursue to best address the housing and housing-related needs of their clients. 40 tables, 16 figures, and numerous references.

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