Many government bodies and policymakers have embraced privatization of child welfare services, while others question whether privatization is truly more cost-effective or provides the best services. This book reports on six states' efforts to privatize their child welfare systems and their varying levels of success. This research documents the rich experiences of a variety of communities that have moved to private service delivery and will help child welfare practitioners everywhere understand what privatization can and cannot do to help them help children. Part I of the book examines the concept of privatization and explores exactly what is meant by the term and what, as a service delivery mechanism, privatization purports to do. It also examines the debate that has characterized considerations of privatization in general, in the context of social services overall, and in relation to child welfare services specifically. Part II uses a case study approach to look closely at six different jurisdictions that have developed privatization initiatives. Part III synthesizes the lessons of the six case studies, offering 13 themes identified as common to many, if not all, of the initiatives studied. It offers specific recommendations that communities might consider if they choose to embark on a privatization effort. The book closes with a few observations on privatization in general and its effect in the child welfare arena. (Contains 179 references and 49 tables.) (GCP)