Research methods in child welfare /

Child welfare can be seen as a concept, a social problem, or a socially constructed institution. The authors of these research texts adeptly weave in and out of these various conceptualizations for significant but varied contributions to the field. Lindsey (UCLA) and Shlonsky (Toronto) edit the more scholarly and substantial of the two books. They focus on enlarging the view of child welfare in the US and advocate for the amelioration of social conditions (in particular, poverty) thought to contribute to the problem. While several chapters tend to go too far afield (e.g,. restorative justice, technology), most are well and thoughtfully written. Several contributions (e.g., those by Courtney, Dworsky, Irving Piliavin and Steven McMurtry, and Mark Testa) are superior. Overall, the authors make good arguments for appreciating the complexity inherent in child welfare research, inextricably interwoven politically, ethically, and empirically, and they highlight its evidence- and values-based past, present, and future.Aimed more solidly toward an audience of agency-based researchers, Baker (New York Foundling Hospital) and Charvat's goal is to help those working within the institution of child welfare to conduct more scientifically rigorous and ethically responsible research. Covering basic components such as problem formulation, design, data collection, analysis, and writing of findings, the book reads more like a how-to primer. Its basic problem is a targeting one. Most researchers would already be very familiar with its rather pedantic content; novice researchers hoping to learn more may not find it complete enough for their needs. In sum, Lindsey and Shlonsky ask harder, more demanding questions of the field for which Baker and Charvat provide the background. The dynamic, creative research needed for the field of child welfare will take more than either of these texts alone can provide. Summing Up: Recommended. Both titles. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, professionals, practitioners. J. C. Altman Adelphi University