Specialty Permanency Practice Exam

What is the consequence of failing to follow up on parental visits as per reunification goals?

1. Placement may remain the same

2. It may lead to extended custody

3. No consequence arises

4. Parents may lose visitation rights

The correct answer is: It may lead to extended custody

Failing to follow up on parental visits as part of reunification goals can indeed result in extended custody. When a child is in the foster care system, the primary objective is often to reunite them with their biological parents, provided the parents address the issues that led to the child’s placement away from home. Consistent follow-up on parental visits is crucial in evaluating the parents' progress and commitment to reunification. If there is a lack of follow-up, it can indicate that the parents are not adequately engaging in the reunification process or that they may not be ready or able to provide a safe environment for the child. This situation can lead to extended custody arrangements as the courts may deem it necessary to maintain the child's current placement while further evaluating the parents' situation. The health and well-being of the child remain the top priority, and if parental visitation is not adequately monitored or followed up on, it raises concerns for the child's future safety and stability, which can indirectly influence custody decisions.