Date of Conferral
2021
Degree
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
School
Social Work
Advisor
Diane Rullo
Abstract
Families First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) passed in February of 2018 at the federal level to preserve families and reduce the number of children entering foster care. The State of Arkansas implemented Intensive In-Home Services (IIHS) in 2019 to support the Families First Prevention Services Act. It was observed that more than half of the closed IIHS cases had closed before a family had the opportunity to successfully complete their treatment goals. This study explored reasons Intensive In-Home Service cases are closing early. A basic qualitative design using semistructured interviews was applied through the purposeful sampling of 7 social workers using IIHS. The study was grounded in ecological systems theory. The findings highlighted the need to cultivate proper referrals to the program and provide additional engagement training to social workers implementing this program. The need to increase knowledge about substance use and treatment was identified by social workers providing Intensive In-Home Services. This study will positively inform social change as other states are implementing programs through FFPSA to preserve families and reduce the number of children in foster care.
Recommended Citation
McCauley, Nicole Lisko, "Early case closure of the Intensive In-Home Program in Arkansas" (2021). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 10737.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/10737
