Which of the following is NOT considered a permanency outcome?

• A. Aging out with appropriate supports
• B. Adoption
• C. Sibling separation without plan
• D. Guardianship

Answer: (C)

Permanency outcomes are plans that give a child a stable, lasting arrangement that supports their safety, well-being, and sense of family as they grow. Adoption and guardianship are classic paths to permanence because they establish a long-term, legally recognized caregiver relationship. Aging out with appropriate supports is treated as a permanency outcome in the sense that there’s a concrete plan to help a youth transition to independent living with ongoing supports.

Separating siblings without a plan, on the other hand, does not provide a stable, lasting arrangement. Without a plan to keep siblings connected or to address their ongoing needs together, there’s no guaranteed permanence for the children. That’s why this option is not considered a permanency outcome.