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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

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Publications

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News

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Webinars

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Resources

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Contributors

Authors

Ronald C. Hughes, PhD, MSSA
Executive Director, Senior Policy Analyst
Child Maltreatment Policy Resource Center
Institute for Human Services

Judith S. Rycus, PhD, MSW
Program Director, Senior Policy Analyst,
Child Maltratment Policy Resource Center
Institute for Human Services

Kathryn A. Piper, PhD, JD, MEd
Policy Analyst and Consultant,
Child Maltreatment Policy Resource Center

Frank Vandervort, JD
Clinical Profession of Law,
University of Michigan Law School
Senior Policy Analyst
Child Maltreatment Policy Resource Center

Advisors

Jane Holzrichter, MSW, LMSW
Director, Child Advocacy Center and
Prevention Services,
Horizons Mental Health Center

Cara Kelly, MSW
Research Specialist, Arizona State University,
Center for Child Well-Being

Suzanne M. Schunk, LCSW, ACSW
Vice President, Family Support Services,
Southwest Human Development