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Evaluating Where We're at with Differential Response

NCJ Number
242105
Journal
Child Abuse & Neglect Volume: 37 Issue: 2-3 Dated: February/March 2013 Pages: 125-132
Author(s)
Alicia Kyte; Nico Trocme; Claire Chamberland
Date Published
March 2013
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the results of a literature review on differential response models that have been used as an innovative way of responding to child maltreatment.
Abstract
Studies examining the use of differential response (DR) models in child maltreatment interventions have found positive outcomes from the use of the models. The results indicate that 1) DR does not compromise child safety; 2) families who have received DR compared to traditional treatment have lower rates of subsequent maltreatment reports and longer times between re-reports; and 3) subsequent re-reports under DR are often less severe than those in families that receive traditional treatment. These findings suggest that DR interventions can be used successfully in response to child maltreatment. The authors recommend continued research on the use of DR interventions in order to more documentation verifying its effectiveness. The data for this study came from a literature review of DR studies published between 2000 and 2012, and from the review of DR evaluation reports obtained from agencies in various States. Table and references