Certified Case Manager Practice Test

If poor prognosis for reunification exists, what is the next preferred permanency option for the child in relative placement?

1. Return to foster care

2. Adoption

3. Independent living

4. Long-term guardianship

The correct answer is: Adoption

In situations where there is a poor prognosis for reunification, the preferred permanency option shifts towards ensuring the child has a stable and secure environment. Adoption stands out as a strong choice because it provides the child with a permanent, loving home where their emotional and psychological needs can be adequately met. Adoption legally transfers parental rights from the birth parents to the adoptive parents, offering the child the opportunity to form long-term attachments and stability, which is crucial for their development. Relative placements, such as living with family members, can offer familiarity and emotional security, but they may not always provide the same level of permanence as adoption. In cases where reunification is not viable, seeking adoptive parents who can provide a committed and nurturing home can be more beneficial for the child’s long-term well-being. This approach is supported by child welfare principles that prioritize the availability of a permanent family structure over temporary arrangements. Options like return to foster care, independent living, or long-term guardianship might not provide the same level of permanence and security that adoption does, making them less favorable in circumstances where stable and long-lasting family connections are required for the child's best interests.