Which of the following is NOT considered a service goal in child welfare?

In the context of child welfare, service goals are intended to ensure the well-being and stability of children and families. Family preservation focuses on keeping families together and providing the necessary support to avoid unnecessary separations. Youth development emphasizes the growth and positive development of young people, aiming to prepare them for successful transitions into adulthood. Adoption or attainment of permanent living arrangements is a critical goal when reunification with the birth family is not possible, ensuring that children have stable, secure homes.

Behavioral modification, while it may be a part of some therapeutic interventions, is typically viewed as a technique or method rather than a broader service goal. It primarily focuses on changing specific behaviors through various strategies, which may not align directly with the overarching objectives of child welfare services that concentrate on holistic family support, stability, and long-term well-being of children. Therefore, it stands apart from the main goals that guide programs and services within child welfare.