Which of the following best describes the decision-making basis for placing a child or referring to DFPS during intake?

• A. Based solely on parental preference.
• B. Based solely on agency budget constraints.
• C. Based solely on random selection.
• D. Decisions to place a child or refer to DFPS are made based on intake assessment and safety considerations.

Answer: (D)

Intake decisions hinge on safety and the information gathered in a formal intake assessment. When a child is being considered for placement or referral to DFPS, staff collect details about the child’s living situation, caregiver capacity, potential risks or abuse/neglect, and available supports. This evidence guides whether the child can be safely served within the agency or if protective services involvement is needed. It’s not about what parents want, the agency’s budget, or guessing randomly—the priority is to assess risk, ensure immediate safety, and determine the most appropriate next step based on documented findings. If safety concerns are present, protective actions or referrals may be pursued; if the situation is deemed safe, placement or referral decisions follow with appropriate planning and services.