Professor, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Florida State University
This grounded theory study explores child welfare supervisors’ perspectives on implementing a structured decision-making (SDM) model in Arkansas. Findings reveal varying levels of acceptance, with supervisors acknowledging SDM’s potential while highlighting adaptation challenges. Themes include implementation barriers, organizational constraints, and the complex role of supervisors in policy implementation.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
Describe the key elements and goals of the Structured Decision-Making (SDM) model in child welfare, including its intended impact on decision-making reliability and reducing disparities.
Evaluate the challenges and barriers child welfare supervisors face in implementing the SDM model, focusing on training inconsistencies, administrative burdens, and regional variability.
Analyze the implications of SDM implementation on equity in child welfare, particularly in addressing disproportionalities affecting minoritized and disabled children, and the need for adaptive, context-sensitive strategies in decision-making.
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