Combining Abuse and Neglect Investigations With Intensive Family Preservation Services: An Innovative Approach to Protecting Children

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate an experimental model for enhancing child protective service (CPS) investigations by teaming CPS investigators with family preservation services (FPS) caseworkers. Method: Using a posttest-only experimental design, high priority cases referred to a state child welfare agency for abuse or neglect were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group. During the interval between referral and case determination, families in the experimental group were served by a pair of caseworkers—CPS and FPS—who investigated the allegation and prepared a joint recommendation. Results: When compared 7 months later, families in the experimental group (a) had their children home for a greater percentage of time, (b) used a broader array of services, and (c) were more satisfied. Both CPS and FPS caseworkers felt that (a) better decisions were made, (b) families were strengthened, and (c) job satisfaction was greater. Conclusions: The model was effective and should be implemented on a broader scale.

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