Study

This one-credit course examines issues in the child welfare system (also known as the family regulation system), including child abuse and neglect, the foster care system, and termination of parental rights. We will discuss critiques of the system, including the system’s impact on Black families, the role of poverty in abuse and neglect cases, and concerns about family surveillance, and will consider potential solutions to these problems, including calls for reform or abolition. We will read Torn Apart by Dorothy Roberts, statutory frameworks such as the Child Abuse and Prevention Act (CAPTA), and articles by scholars and practitioners. Students will write and present reflection papers, engage with guest speakers, and evaluate policy proposals.

Meeting Dates: January 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, March 6, 20 

Special Notes:

Fast Track

Spring 2025

Course Number	Course Credits	Evaluation Method	Instructor
611.61	1	Reflective Writing Class participation	Kerry Abrams, Crystal Grant
Canvas site: https://canvas.duke.edu/courses/53919