Parents' Perceptions of Family Preservation Services: A Focus Group Study

This qualitative study described the experiences of clients who had previously participated in Family Preservation (FP) services to get a better in-depth understanding of the effects of the program. Data were gathered through convenience sampling using a focus group design. The total sample consisted of eight female participants who were referred to the FP program by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). The themes identified in this study relate to the importance of support, the provision of tangible resources, advocating for clients, improved family functioning, and feelings of gratitude and accomplishment after successful FP completion. Suggestions for improvement, such as the provision of follow-up services, were also made. Based on the responses, recommendations for policy, social work practice, and further research were provided