Responding to “Issues in Differential Response”.

Hughes, Rycus, Saunders-Adams, Hughes, and Hughes’s article represents an important effort to critically examine the foundation of thought and empirical evidence associated with the rise in prominence of differential response (DR) within child welfare systems throughout the United States. The insights and criticisms offered are an important contribution to the professional literature. The arguments and perspective put forward can best be understood within the context of continuing conflict and debate (within child welfare) stemming from the countervailing influences of the principle of least intrusion and demands to ensure child safety. Although effective arguments are put forth that support many of the conclusions and interpretations, there are a few comments that require further discussion and reflection. More specifically, it is unclear if there is sufficient evidence to support their claim that children in DR alternative tracks may or are at a more heightened safety risk. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]