Related Experiment Videos
Developing and maintaining a coordinated system of community-based services to children
1Simmons College School of Social Work, Boston, MA 02116-2307.
Community Mental Health Journal
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Developing systems of care for children and families requires interagency collaboration. Key principles include community involvement, respecting system autonomy, appreciating diverse views, and shared goals, supported by training and legislative backing.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
- Systems of Care Research
- Interagency Collaboration Models
Background:
- The Child and Adolescent Service Systems Program (CASSP) promotes "systems of care" models.
- These systems emphasize interagency collaboration and community engagement for children with emotional disturbances and their families.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key principles for effective interagency collaboration within systems of care.
- To explore the necessary supports for realizing these collaborative principles.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of the South Shore mental health catchment area.
- Qualitative assessment of factors contributing to successful collaboration.
Main Results:
- Effective collaboration hinges on mobilizing community members, respecting system autonomy and interdependence, valuing diverse perspectives, and committing to shared objectives.
- Successful implementation requires staff training, flexible agency structures, and strong community, state, and federal legislative support.
Conclusions:
- Establishing robust systems of care necessitates a strategic approach to interagency collaboration.
- The identified principles and supports are crucial for the successful development and sustainability of community-based services for children and families.