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This symposium aligns with the conference theme of Social Work Research at the Service of Democracy by examining how prevention policy can promote more equitable, inclusive, and accountable systems for children and families. We bring together four complementary studies that examine FFPSA implementation across multiple dimensions, including policy foundation and evidence (i.e., waiver programs), state policy framing (i.e., issues of equity), decision-making (i.e., stakeholder engagement), and frontline implementation (i.e., workforce training). Collectively, these papers provide a multi-level analysis of how prevention policy is being interpreted and enacted across states.
The first paper situates FFPSA within its broader policy context by examining the impact of the Title IV-E waiver program, a precursor to FFPSA, on child maltreatment and foster care entry. Using quasi-experimental methods, the study finds that waiver programs, particularly those emphasizing evidence-based parenting interventions, were associated with significant reductions in maltreatment and foster care entry, underscoring the importance of evidence-informed prevention.
The second paper examines how states define and address inequities in their Title IV-E prevention plans. Findings highlight a strong emphasis on racial/ethnic disparities but limited use of structural interventions, with most strategies focused on culturally responsive service delivery rather than policy or systems reform.
The third paper evaluates how states incorporate stakeholder and community voice into prevention planning. While engagement is widespread, it is uneven in representation and depth, with underrepresentation of groups such as tribal nations and a reliance on one-time input from individuals with lived experience rather than sustained partnership.
The fourth paper focuses on workforce capacity and implementation, presenting an evaluation of a caseworker training designed to shift attitudes toward economic supports as a form of maltreatment prevention. Findings demonstrate that training can meaningfully shift perceptions of poverty and structural factors, which may be critical for the successful adoption and implementation of prevention strategies aligned with FFPSA requirements.
Taken together, these studies highlight both progress and persistent gaps in FFPSA implementation. A senior scientist will facilitate a discussion synthesizing findings across studies and highlighting implications for policy, practice, and future research to strengthen effective prevention systems under FFPSA.