The implementation and expansion of SAFE: Frontline responses and the transfer of technology to practice

Recent discussions of evidence-based practices have focused on translating programmatic conceptual frameworks and best practices into the “real world” of practice settings. This article discusses the implementation and expansion of the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) home study methodology over the course of 4 years. Survey data include the evaluations of frontline employees (n = 220), from multiple sites, regarding SAFE's ability to identify effectively families' potential issues of concern during the home study process. Perceptions of SAFE's usefulness as a home study method for a variety of family and practice situations are also measured and illuminated with qualitative accounts. Respondents indicated that SAFE more effectively identifies most issues of concern when compared with conventional methods, and that SAFE is a useful method for evaluating prospective resource families across a variety of situations. Some respondents expressed that SAFE still requires some improvements, and that some areas of home study practice in general are beyond reach for any method (e.g., applicant honesty). Given the positive responses for SAFE regarding increased thoroughness, however, this study adds to evidence that SAFE may lead to both improved practice and more accurate home studies, and lays the groundwork for further empirical exploration of the SAFE home study method.