Illinois Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL) Practice Test

What does the Dual Mandate involve?

1. Protecting children and supporting families

2. Placing orphaned children with families

3. Establishing requirements for family support services

4. Governing child custody cases involving Indian children

The correct answer is: Protecting children and supporting families

The Dual Mandate refers to the responsibility of child welfare agencies to both protect children from abuse and neglect while also supporting and preserving families whenever possible. This approach recognizes the importance of maintaining a balance between ensuring the safety and well-being of children while also attempting to address the underlying issues within families that may be contributing to child welfare concerns. Protecting children and supporting families (Option A) aligns with the concept of the Dual Mandate, making it the correct answer. Options B, C, and D are incorrect: - Placing orphaned children with families (Option B) focuses on adoption services rather than the Dual Mandate which involves protecting children and supporting families. - Establishing requirements for family support services (Option C) is a good practice but does not encompass the Dual Mandate principle as directly as protecting children and supporting families. - Governing child custody cases involving Indian children (Option D) refers to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) which is specific legislation related to child welfare cases involving Native American children, not the broader Dual Mandate principle.