Fixing Families: Parents, Power, and the Child Welfare System

by Jennifer A. Reich

In Fixing Families , Jennifer Reich takes us inside Child Protective Services for an in-depth look at the entire organization. Following families from the beginning of a case to its discharge, Reich shows how parents negotiate with the state for custody of their children, and how being held accountable to the state affects a family.

Genres: Sociology

376 pages, Paperback

First published July 27, 2005

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good introduction to the world of child welfare in the U.S. I picked it up because my job requires me to understand current child welfare legislation, and I was looking for something comprehensive. (The book is circa 2005, so it's as up-to-date as it gets, including info about the 2005 Deficit Reduction Act)

It starts with a history of child welfare (not long, it only goes back to the mid-1800s). Then goes through a few specific cases, to present the nuances of the system. She also tackles the biases against the poor, among others.

Whichever side you tended towards--either more state intervention in family life, or less--you will forced to at least reconsider. Though generally an advocate of government, I find myself leaning towards less intervention. How would you feel if some random social worker came into your house and judged your parenting skills?

The first half of the book is better than the second half, when she starts to get repetitive. She finishes with a strong conclusion though, with lots of good ideas for reform. One of which being, parents should be more involved in designing their care plans, as opposed to the state controlling everything. Would likely give parents more ownership and increase participation, leading to better outcomes.

Amazing how everything always comes back to self-empowerment.

[Marsy]

excellent informative book!!!