NCJ Number
114881
Date Published
1984
Length
24 pages
Annotation
In 1983, a two-part study was initiated to determine the number of high risk/high need (HRHN) youth in West Virginia, develop a profile of these youth, and explore innovative program models for troubled youngsters.
Abstract
During the first phase of the study, agencies working with children and adolescents were asked to identify HRHN youth among their clientele. Over 90 percent of contacted agencies participated, including schools, health agencies, psychiatric hospitals, probation offices, and juvenile correctional facilities. Of 2,084 HRHN youth identified, the majority were male, 14 to 17 years old, and white. Schools and human service workers identified the largest proportion of these youth. On the basis of client data, the HRHN youth has lived with at least one parent consistently but has spent large periods of time alone or unsupervised. Over half of these youth have experienced at least one out-of-home placement. Such youth are rarely involved in social activities, have school problems, are likely to enter special education programs, and come from low-income and multiproblem families. Despite this, a majority have never been involved in family therapy or similiar programs. The profile suggests a need for flexible, well-planned, individualized, and coordinated services. 17 tables.