Abstract
This study presents findings of a formative evaluation of an innovative pilot program designed to reunify and reintegrate
foster youth with complex mental and behavioral needs in residential treatment centers or therapeutic foster care with their
families in the community. Data collection methods included in-depth structured case file reviews and semi-structured interviews
with the youth, as well as their caregivers, Child Protective Services caseworkers, and pilot program staff. The participants
provided important insights regarding system, program, and case-level barriers to the successful reunification of these youth
back into the community. Training, practice, and policy recommendations are discussed.
foster youth with complex mental and behavioral needs in residential treatment centers or therapeutic foster care with their
families in the community. Data collection methods included in-depth structured case file reviews and semi-structured interviews
with the youth, as well as their caregivers, Child Protective Services caseworkers, and pilot program staff. The participants
provided important insights regarding system, program, and case-level barriers to the successful reunification of these youth
back into the community. Training, practice, and policy recommendations are discussed.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-20
- DOI 10.1007/s10560-012-0257-1
- Authors
- Elissa E. Madden, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
- Erin J. Maher, Casey Family Programs, Seattle, WA, USA
- Ruth G. McRoy, Boston College, Boston, MA, USA
- Kristin J. Ward, Casey Family Programs, Seattle, WA, USA
- Laura Peveto, Travis County Health and Human Services & Veterans Service, Austin, TX, USA
- Ann Stanley, Casey Family Programs, Seattle, WA, USA
- Journal Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal
- Online ISSN 1573-2797
- Print ISSN 0738-0151