Burns Riley, P: High Risk Youth: An Outcome Study of Support

Although there are many populations in the United States who need mental health services, few are as vulnerable as youth with severe emotional disturbances. They often require many services and support from both family and their community as a whole. They may be depressed, isolated, and struggle with feelings of emptiness and alienation while engaging in risky behaviors that only worsen their situation. They may be experiencing parent-child conflicts, struggles in school, may be engaging in self defeating behaviors, or breaking the law. Many end up in detention facilities, living in shelters or with relatives/friends or are hospitalized for presenting psychiatric behaviors. In an attempt to reduce costs and address these issues many states have turned to case management services and other organized community supports to meet the needs of these youths. This study examined the effects of Case Management and In Home Behavioral Services on functional and service outcomes for 308 youth experiencing severe emotional disturbances in Maine. Implications of the study findings for program and service improvement are discussed.