Family group decision-making is a generic term that includes a number of approaches in which family members are brought together to make decisions about how to care for their children and develop a plan for services. Different names used for this type of intervention include family team conferencing, family team meetings, family group conferencing, family team decision-making, family unity meetings, and team decision-making. Approaches differ in various aspects, but most consist of several phases and employ a trained facilitator or coordinator.
An Evaluation of Family Group Decision Making with Native American Families Toolkit (PDF - 730 KB)
Casey Family Programs (2011)
Provides a toolkit that contains surveys and guides to help communities that are interested in conducting their own evaluations of family group decision-making meetings.
Expanding the Family Circle
University at Albany School of Social Welfare (2009)
Provides a framework for the experienced caseworker to integrate a culturally competent, family-centered approach to casework practice with all families engaged in child welfare services. The website includes a curriculum (skills and strategies), activities, a trainer's manual, and a participant workbook.
Family Group Decision Making: A Solution to Racial Disproportionality and Disparities in Child Welfare (PDF - 537 KB)
National Center on Family Group Decision Making (2010)
Discusses the role of family group decision-making in a synthesized international research project and how it can help reduce racial disparities in child welfare systems and improve outcomes for children and families of color.
Using Family Group Conferencing to Assist Immigrant Children and Families in the Child Welfare System (PDF - 199 KB)
Howard & Bruce (2008)
National Center on Family Group Decision Making
Highlights the key factors to consider when using family group counseling as an approach with children whose families traverse national borders, including cultural and financial considerations.
What Is Family Group Decision Making?
University of Colorado Kempe Center
Provides guidelines, instructions, and references explaining family group decision making in child welfare.