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Contextual determinants of re-reporting for families receiving alternative response: A survival analysis in a Midwestern State

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  • Lai, Jianchao
  • Graef, Michelle
  • Franke, Todd
  • Burnham, Toby

Abstract

Differential response (DR) has been widely adopted in over 30 states to address shortcomings of the traditional approach to child maltreatment reports in complex family and case circumstances. However, despite continued evaluation efforts, evidence of the effectiveness of DR remains inconclusive. The current study aims to assess the impact of a DR program and potential predictors, including service match and number of family case workers, on maltreatment re-reports in a Midwestern state. The study utilized a randomized control trial and assigned eligible families to either the Alternative Response (AR) track or Traditional Response (TR) track. The enrollment was implemented in a phased rollout covering all counties in the state. Data were drawn from state child welfare administrative datasets and case worker surveys. The probability and time to re-reporting was calculated using survival analysis, while adjusting for case-level covariates. Prior ongoing case (HR = 3.24, p < 0.001), high risk level (HR = 1.43, p < 0.05), and having only one worker (HR = 1.92, p < 0.001) serve the case were strong predictors of re-reporting. The effect of service match within each level of prior ongoing case (No, Yes) was also a significant predictor of re-reporting (p < 0.05). AR had limited, but nonsignificant, impact on preventing re-reporting after adjusting for these factors, as there was no difference in terms of re-reporting between DR tracks. However, findings suggest that matching child welfare service with family needs is an important component of child welfare practice. Implications for DR policy and practice are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Lai, Jianchao & Graef, Michelle & Franke, Todd & Burnham, Toby, 2023. "Contextual determinants of re-reporting for families receiving alternative response: A survival analysis in a Midwestern State," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 155(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:155:y:2023:i:c:s0190740923003420
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2023.107146
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kahn, Jessica M. & Schwalbe, Craig, 2010. "The timing to and risk factors associated with child welfare system recidivism at two decision-making points," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 32(7), pages 1035-1044, July.
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    1. Lai, Jianchao & Graef, Michelle & Franke, Todd, 2025. "Exploring the dynamics and outcomes of family engagement in child welfare services: A structural equation modeling approach," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 171(C).

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