An approach that allows child protective services to respond differently to accepted reports of child abuse and neglect. Differential Response services are provided by community-based organizations and can either be provided to the family in lieu of Child Welfare Services (Path 1) or as a supplement to Child Welfare Services (Path 2). A Path 1, Differential Response is chosen when allegations do not meet statutory definitions of abuse or neglect, and the family is given an opportunity to embrace community services. A Path 2 Differential Response is chosen when reports meet statutory definitions of abuse or neglect, and assessments indicate that with targeted services a family is likely to make needed improvements to improve child safety.