Behavior Analysis in Child Welfare: Competency Training Caseworkers to Manage Visits Between Parents and Their Children in Foster Care

Abstract

Objective: Two experiments were conducted in connection with training caseworkers of a state child protection agency to manage visits between parents and their children in foster care. Method: In the first experiment, the skills involved in managing visits were identified and assessed with two caseworkers. Results: These caseworkers subsequently participated in an individual training program that improved their ability to manage visits as assessed in role-play. In the second experiment, modifications in the training program were made to allow for group training. The group training program was as effective as individual training at enabling two caseworkers and their supervisor to conduct visits. However, data collected during actual visits were limited; they suggested that the effects of training did not fully generalize. Conclusion: The implications of the research for policy and current litigation in the area of child welfare were discussed.