NCJ Number
244659
Journal
Social Work in Mental Health Volume: 11 Issue: 1-6 Dated: November-December 2013 Pages: 497-515
Date Published
November 2013
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This study examined factors associated with service assignment among a population of children and youth entering a federally funded system of care program referred to specialty mental health services.
Abstract
Few studies offer guidance on best practice for social workers in assessment and recommendation of treatment services for specialty mental health services within a system of care (SOC). This study examined factors associated with service assignment among a population of children and youth (N= 1,270) entering a federally funded system of care program referred to specialty mental health services. Logistic regression was used to examine the likelihood of children and youth determined in need of varying levels of care coordination services based on child factors and referral source. Older youth, youth with internalizing problems, and those referred from mental health compared to juvenile justice and schools were significantly more likely determined in need of more intensive care coordination services. Race was not significantly associated with level of care determination. Findings suggest that differences exist in level of care determination for children entering system of care referred by the juvenile justice system and related services and schools. Social workers and providers need to be aware of these differences in order to properly screen children for internalizing problems when referred by sources other than mental health. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.