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ALTERNATIVE MODELS OF FAMILY PRESERVATION: FAMILY-BASED SERVICES IN CONTEXT

NCJ Number
143831
Author(s)
K E Nelson; M J Landsman
Date Published
1992
Length
261 pages
Annotation
Family-based programs designed to provide an alternative to out-of-home child placements have expanded rapidly since the late 1970's, and the different client populations served by these programs and service delivery modes are described.
Abstract
Family-based services developed within the child welfare system as a means of preventing unnecessary out-of- home placements and keeping families intact whenever possible. Based on the concept that the family is a social system and the behavior of one member influences and is influenced by other members, family-based programs focus on the family as a unit rather than on individual problems. Services are usually delivered in homes and communities, although less intensive programs also use office settings for treatment. Following a review of the history of family- based services, the authors look at specific client populations and service delivery modes, based on data collected in a study by the National Resource Center on Family Based Services. This study examined 454 cases drawn from nine family-based service programs and assessed case outcomes for different client populations and service delivery settings. Families experiencing such diverse problems as child abuse and neglect, sexual abuse, and delinquency/status offenses are described, along with programs based in rural areas and programs operating under public and private auspices. The future of family-based services is explored in relation to target populations, public versus private administration, practice and research issues, and policy issues. Appendixes contain supplemental information on success and failure in family-based services and on analysis procedures and results. References and tables