Strong, well-executed evaluations are essential to a child welfare system that improves outcomes for children, youth, and families. However, limited evidence and too few rigorous studies hinder the field’s ability to identify effective approaches. Persistent barriers continue to restrict the high-quality, systematic evaluations needed to understand program implementation, impact, and cost.
This series of three briefs outlines the need for rigorous evaluation of policies, programs, and practices that shape the experiences and outcomes of those served by the child welfare system in the United States, including child protective services, family preservation and reunification services, out-of-home care, and adoption and guardianship services supported by Title IV-E and Title IV-B of the Social Security Act.
The Context and Landscape brief examines current evidence on the effectiveness of child welfare programs and services; the Hurdles for Agencies brief explores challenges that limit the development of systematic evidence; and the Design Challenges brief analyzes obstacles associated with various evaluation approaches. Together, these briefs aim to catalyze discussion across the field on overcoming barriers to building a stronger evidence base. The series seeks to equip families, child welfare agency staff, program developers, legal representatives, and advocates with insights to guide systemwide improvements in child welfare services.
