Search

Describes implementation of a computerized version of the Child Welfare League of America's Child Well-Being Scales by a family services agency in southern Ontario. Reviews results obtained from 172 families to illustrate the potential for using computerized risk assessment as an aid in clinical, supervisory, and management decision-making processes at the agency; asserts that the scales have been useful. (EV)

Discusses the benefits and shortcomings of three systems for assessing risk factors affecting children: the Illinois CANTS 17B; the Washington Assessment of Risk Matrix; the Child at Risk Field System. Although these systems are used in 23 states, the lack of staff knowledgeable about human development and the uncertain reliability and validity of the instruments has limited their usefulness. (MDM)

The three systems, the CANTS 17B model, the Washington Assessment Risk Matrix (WARM) and the Child at Risk Field System (CARF), are used in assessing the degree to which the children are at a risk of being ill-treated and evaded in the future. The CANTS 17B model gives certain principles for backing organized decisions, thereby making subsequent and stable assessments possible. The WARM model aids in planning services in situations that involve high risks, and the CARF is used to reduce risk and provide security. The three models have certain weaknesses in terms of reliability, validity, implementation and in requiring trained staff.