Pathway Decisions in Differential Response

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the factors practitioners involved with the child and family services agency in Washington DC consider when making decisions specific to pathway assignment (investigation/family assessment) in a differential response system for screened in referrals/reports alleging child abuse and/or neglect. Twenty social work, law and nursing professionals participating on teams determining responses for referrals regarding child maltreatment concerns participated in in-depth, audio recorded individual interviews engaging their views on the factors they consider in the pathway decision. Thematic analysis yielded seven factors that were most often considered in the pathway decision making process: Identity of the reporter, perceived urgency to see the child(ren), knowledge of the family’s willingness to engage in services voluntarily, perceptions and assumptions about the family, the health and expertise of the team’s participants, knowledge about supports and resources available and used by the family, and family complexity/challenges; a framework was developed describing how these factors impacted the pathway decision. Participants offered their perspectives on the key strengths of the pathway decision process: working collaboratively, sharing responsibility, increasing confidence, and building expertise.