disproportionality
DIS-pruh-por-shuh-NAL-ih-tee
Definition
The state or quality of being out of proportion, specifically referring to the overrepresentation of certain racial or socioeconomic groups within the child welfare and foster care systems.
Etymology
The word is derived from the prefix 'dis-' (meaning 'apart' or 'away') and 'proportional,' which comes from the Latin 'proportio' meaning 'comparative relation.' It entered English to describe a lack of symmetry or a failure to correspond in size or amount.
In the news
The article uses this term to describe the inequitable, higher rates at which Black families and other marginalized groups are investigated or removed from their homes by child protective services compared to the general population. It is the central problem the new Minnesota law seeks to address through targeted family preservation efforts.
Report Questions if Minnesota's Family Preservation Act Will Be Effective
Read the full article ↗The Imprint