Differential Response to Child Protection in an Intercultural Context: The Viewpoint and Experience of Parents and Young People From Ethnocultural Minorities

Abstract

Differential response (DR) is an alternative to traditional approaches in child protection. DR is promising for ethnocultural minority (ECM) families at low risk of maltreatment. This qualitative study explores the experience and perspectives of ECM families regarding DR based on interviews with 11 parents and four youth in Quebec. The results highlight the strengths of DR in establishing positive collaboration with families and the perceived positive impact. However, uptake of services by ECM families remains low due to barriers to accessing post-intervention support. Implications for the development of strategies adapted to the specific needs of ECM families are discussed.