Separation, Visitation and Reunification: Michigan Child Welfare Reform and Its Implications for Siblings

Abstract

Removal of children from abusive or neglectful families is an unfortunate but necessary aspect of child protective services, and the separation of siblings can be especially traumatic. This paper examines the Dwayne B. v. Snyder Modified Settlement Agreement (MSA), the result of a class action lawsuit regarding the management of the child welfare foster care system by the Michigan Department of Human Services. The MSA contains several mandates regarding the handling of siblings, though various measures of compliance remain unmet. Through field observations and interviews within the Michigan foster care system, we identify several factors prohibiting effective sibling care. Each year over 200,000 children enter foster care in the United States, most often upon the intervention of child protective services [CPS] who become involved in children's lives when allegations of abuse and neglect are confirmed (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2012). While such intervention may be necessary, state interference in child-victims' lives is often traumatic as well. Allowing (non-offending) siblings regular and quality contact with one another, and where possible placing them in the same foster home, may mitigate the effects of CPS involvement. Unfortunately a host of factors impact sibling interaction and out-of-home placement.