Illinois Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL) Practice Test

What is the main purpose of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)?

1. Receiving federal funding for family support services

2. Supporting families and protecting children

3. Governing state court child custody cases involving Indian children

4. Placing orphaned children with families

The correct answer is: Governing state court child custody cases involving Indian children

The main purpose of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is to govern state court child custody cases involving Indian children. The ICWA was enacted to protect the best interests of Indian children, promote the stability and security of Indian tribes and families, and prevent the breakup of Indian families. By providing guidelines and procedures for child custody cases involving Native American children, the ICWA works to ensure that their cultural heritage and tribal connections are respected and preserved. Therefore, option C is the correct answer as it accurately captures the primary objective of the Indian Child Welfare Act. The other options are incorrect because: A. Receiving federal funding for family support services: This choice is not the main purpose of the Indian Child Welfare Act. While funding for family support services may be one of the outcomes or mechanisms to support the goals of the ICWA, it is not the primary purpose of the legislation. B. Supporting families and protecting children: While supporting families and protecting children are important aspects of the ICWA, the main purpose of the Act is specifically focused on governing state court child custody cases involving Indian children, which is a more specific and direct objective. D. Placing orphaned children with families: The ICWA primarily deals with child custody cases involving Indian