Implementation of an evidence-based intervention to reduce long-term foster care: Practitioner perceptions of key challenges and supports

Although a growing literature defines significant components of systematic and effective implementation of evidence-based interventions (EBIs), little information exists about real-world successes and setbacks from child welfare practitioners' perspectives. This study sought to identify key challenges and supports during implementation of an EBI to reduce long-term foster care. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted with 28 child welfare practitioners implementing an EBI-Parent Management Training, Oregon Model (PMTO). Transcripts were coded and analyzed using theoretical thematic analysis. Member checking was used to confirm identified themes across interviews. Using six implementation factors to organize the results, multiple facilitators and barriers were identified. Study findings suggest that implementation of EBIs in child welfare should consider promoting and ensuring: (a) a learning culture with effective communication, rapid improvement cycles, and timely feedback loops; (b) frequent, direct, supportive, and high-quality coaching and supervision; (c) strong leadership and organizational fit; and, (d) strategies for tailoring the EBI to the child welfare setting, including responses to families' multiple and complex needs and practices for effective client engagement.