Parental evaluation of social intervention effectiveness in families with children at risk

Evidence-based social policy has become a prevalent approach to managing social programs, relying heavily on evaluation procedures often intertwined with sociological methods. This article analyzes the implementation of one such evaluation procedure—feedback from recipients of social intervention—within a comprehensive assessment of an interdisciplinary team's intervention technology addressing child rights violations. Interviews with family members participating in the program were conducted. Findings indicate progress and resocialization within families, demonstrating increased awareness of their problems and engagement in efforts toward social normalization. However, this perspective contrasts with the more optimistic evaluations provided by experts and specialists. While family members acknowledged progress and viewed it as hope for a better future, their confidence in overcoming existing problems was less pronounced. Nevertheless, the study documents demonstrable progress, including a reduction in child abuse cases attributable to the intervention technology. This success is significantly linked to the advanced skills of the specialists implementing the technology and their altered approach to case management. The empathetic and collaborative approach of the caseworkers, coupled with the technology's components, fostered optimistic expectations among clients, motivating them to change their lives and break cycles of dependence, poverty, and domestic violence. The study, however, also reveals limitations to the technology's applicability, particularly concerning families with low initial resources and complicating factors such as alcohol and substance abuse. Furthermore, interaction with caseworkers and other specialists fostered the acquisition of new skills, including a familiarity with the language of psychology and social work. This, however, also presents a potential risk of dependency and reliance on continued support. This article contributes to the methodological advancement of evidence-based social policy.

parenting, social policy, evaluation, social work