Supporting the fidelity of assessment tools in a statewide multiside residential substance abuse experience for mothers and their children

Summary

Subsequent to the passage of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Georgia established 20 gender specific, 6–12 month substance abuse residential programs for TANF mothers and their children. The purpose of this paper is to discuss one aspect of these residential settings, the fidelity of the assessment processes and tools that were utilized across multiple sites to enhance therapeutic childcare interventions. The data indicated that assessment of children in a residential setting primarily for the treatment of parents is a comprehensive activity. Valid assessment instruments and the commitment and expertise of the site staff are necessary to achieve reliable assessment information.

Keywords:

• Developmental disabilities
• substance abuse treatment
• child assessment