Family Centered Home-Based Models for Placement Prevention

Abstract

Since the 1970's, interest in enabling children at risk for out-of home placement to remain living safely in their families and communities has increased. As a result of this, several family centered home-based models with the goal of preventing removal of the child have developed. This report examines four of these models: Multisystemic Therapy, Homebuilders, Wraparound, and Case Management. Theoretical foundations, provider credentials, caseload size, duration and frequency of service, and research base of the four approaches are examined and compared. These models share the paramount goal of maintaining children in the family home. They also avoid pathologizing the client, family, and surrounding systems.