INVOLVING FAMILIES IN PROGRAMS FOR PREGNANT ADOLESCENTS - PRACTICES AND OBSTACLES

This study investigates the family-involvement strategies employed in Adolescent Family Life (AFL)-funded care Programs for Pregnant and parenting teenagers. Results from a survey of directors, supervisors, and line workers in more than 50 AFL programs show that only a minority of programs involve families in their intake, program, and discharge Practices. Some of the barriers to involving families include large case loads; lack of training, funding, and administrative support; and negative staff attitudes about working with dysfunctional families. Although family-involvement Practices are minimal, a majority of Program workers have positive attitudes about the importance and effectiveness of family involvement. Policy and practice implications are discussed.