Invited Commentary on "Issues in Differential Response''

Ronald Hughes and his colleagues have written a groundbreaking article on child welfare's use of differential response. Their research addresses the matter from a "lessons learned'' and "ways to improve'' approach. Our comments focused on three key issues: (1) the importance of evidence-based practice; (2) the recognition that no one practice modality can be a cure-all for child protection; and (3) the necessity of better quality training for child welfare professionals. We believe the value of this article goes beyond theoretical and ideological discussion, but should be used to promote and support research-informed knowledge in policy and practice.