Differential Response

Differential response (DR), also called alternative response (AR), family assessment (FA) response, or multiple track response, emerged in the 1990s as a way to infuse strengths based, family-centered approaches into child protective services.

DR programs are typically dual track systems, with a traditional track to serve higher risk families and an alternative track designed to serve lower risk families in a less intrusive, more “family friendly” manner. 

Our research identified multiple problems with DR initiatives, including concerns about the validity of the research supporting DR, wide differences in implementation across jurisdictions, and major concerns about the safety of children served in alternative tracks. These issues are highlighted in the policy papers and articles posted below.

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Policy Reports

Purple Box that reads White Paper -Issues in Differential Response
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Purple Box that reads White Paper - Issues in Differential Response Revisited

Publications

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Purple box that reads Differential Response: A Misrepresentation of Investigation and Case Fact Finding in Child Protective Services
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Purple box that reads Differential Response in Child Protection: How Much is Too Much?
Purple box that reads Pioneer Institute: To Ensure Child Safety in Massachusetts, Most Critical Reforms Are to DR Program
Purple box that reads Discussion of Issues in Differential Response
Purple box that reads When Just as Safe and No less Safe Are Not Safe Enough

News

Purple box that says In Harm's Way: How Minnesota's child protection system exposes kids to more abuse, neglect
Purple box that says In Harm's Way: "Friendly" approach to child protection fails Minnesota families, leads to more abuse
Purple box that says Legislators vow to reform Minnesota's child protection System

Webinars

Purple Webinar Box that says DR Interview with Dr. Kathryn Piper
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Purple Webinar Box that says DR - One Hour Training by Dr. Kathryn Piper

Resources

Purple box that says Child Fatalities from Maltreatment 2014-2022

Contributors