Privatization, racial disproportionality and disparity in child welfare: Outcomes for foster children of color

Purpose: This study examined the effect of privatization policy on the issue of racial disparity in the child welfare system. Method: Specific outcomes for N = 118,761 foster children across 10 states were compared to determine if the state system type [privatized vs. non-privatized] had any influence on disparities in outcomes by race. Results: A main effect emerged for race and in the interactions between system type and race. Discussion: The extent of disparity for children of color in foster care was supported, but for some outcomes, both groups fared better in privatized systems.