In this new volume, two distinguished professors of social work debate the question of whether family preservation or adoption serves the best interests of abused and neglected children.

Arguing the merits of keeping families together whenever possible, Ruth G. McRoy examines the background, theory, and effectiveness of family preservation programs. She provides practical recommendations and pays particular attention to the concerns of African American children.

Claiming that there is insufficient evidence that family preservation actually works, Howard Altstein counters that children from truly dysfunctional families should be given the chance for stable lives through adoption rather than left in limbo.

Howard Altstein is a professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Maryland in Baltimore.

Ruth G. McRoy is director of the Center for Social Work Research, Distinguished Teaching Professor, and Ruby Lee Piester Centennial Professor in Services to Children and Families, at the University of Texas at Austin.