Reunification and Behavioral Problems of American Indian Children in the Child Welfare System

Abstract

The two studies presented in this dissertation examine outcomes for American Indian children in the child welfare system (Study 1: n = 456, Study 2: n = 3,498). Both studies are grounded in Patterson’s (2002) Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response theory and utilize baseline, 18-month, and 36-month follow-up data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-being. Each study used propensity score matching and multiple logistic regression, although Study 1 incorporated the Long-Term Foster Care sample and Study 2 used the Child Protective Services sample. Study 1’s purpose was estimating the effect of race on reunification among American Indian, African American, and Caucasian children ages 2 – 15 years. Study findings suggested that reunification did not differ based on race after balancing on family demands and capabilities. Study 2’s purpose was estimating the effect of race on the probability of displaying internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems among American Indian, African American, and Caucasian children ages 2 – 16. years Findings revealed that American Indian children had an increased probability for displaying clinically significant externalizing behavior problems at 36-month follow-up. These studies suggest that, although descriptively American Indian children are less likely to reunify and are more likely to display clinically significant behavioral problems, such findings are not explained by race alone after balancing family demands and capabilities.