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Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research

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01-07-2014 | Original Article

A Multi-state Study on Mental Health Evaluation for Children Entering Foster Care

Authors: Munya Hayek, Thomas I. Mackie, Christina M. Mulé, Christopher Bellonci, Justeen Hyde, Jennifer S. Bakan, Laurel K. Leslie

Published in: Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research | Issue 4/2014

Abstract

When compared with the general United States child population, children entering foster care have elevated rates of mental health problems. This study examines: (1) state approaches to mental health evaluations for children entering foster care for the first time, (2) the consistency of these approaches with professional guidelines, and (3) whether the specific instruments endorsed are supported by available evidence. Semi-structured qualitative interviews and a document review of available protocols/policies were conducted for 47 states and the District of Columbia. All states endorsed mental health evaluations; variation existed between states in approach, timeframe, administrator, and specific instruments endorsed.

For our study purposes, a distinction was made between child welfare agency policies and protocols. Policies refer to state legislation, court regulations, inter- and intra- child welfare agency policies, or administrative directives. Protocols refer to the formal written procedures of state agencies.

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Title: A Multi-state Study on Mental Health Evaluation for Children Entering Foster Care
Authors: Munya Hayek
Thomas I. Mackie
Christina M. Mulé
Christopher Bellonci
Justeen Hyde
Jennifer S. Bakan
Laurel K. Leslie
Publication date: 01-07-2014
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research / Issue 4/2014
Print ISSN: 0894-587X
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3289
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10488-013-0495-3

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

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A Multi-state Study on Mental Health Evaluation for Children Entering Foster Care

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

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