As set out by the Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA), states must meet specific standards based on child welfare outcome measures.  Permanency is one key outcome, and when possible, reunification with families of origin is the preferred permanent placement for children.  However, simply noting whether or not reunification has occurred is not enough; an [...]

Since the early 1990s, various forms of child maltreatment and child victimization have been declining in the United States.  From approximately 1993 through 2004, the following trends have been noted: sexual abuse substantiations declined by 49%, sexual assaults of teenagers declined by 67%, and physical abuse substantiations were down 43%.  Also during this time period, [...]

Past research has shown that stability in caregiving is a powerful predictor of long-term outcomes for children.  Foster children who experience multiple placements are likely to experience greater academic difficulties and exhibit more behavioral problems as compared to children with stable placements.  The authors of the present study note that commitment, defined as the extent [...]

Promising Intervention for Physically Abusive Parents and Foster Parent – Foster Child Dyads 

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) was initially developed in the 1970s as a treatment for families with children ages 2 to 7 with oppositional and defiant behavior.  More recently, PCIT has been adapted for use with physically abusive parents with children aged 4 to [...]

Caregiver Monitoring May be More Important than Placement Setting in Preventing Substance Use in Maltreated Youth

Past research has indicated maltreated youth are more likely than their non-maltreated peers to live in poverty, experience academic problems and exhibit social skills deficits.  Each of these domains is associated with a greater likelihood of substance use.  However, even [...]

National statistics show that neglect referrals to Child Protective Services (CPS) have increased over the past decade, and neglect represents the most common type of maltreatment reported, as well as the type most often substantiated.  Thus, this is a significant social issue, and unfortunately, controversy exists regarding the definition of neglect.  The authors point out [...]

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