Components of the Evaluation

Child and Family Outcome Study

The purpose of this study is to examine how participation in services in a system of care affects child clinical and functional status and family life. Outcome data on child clinical and functional status will be used to assess change over time in the following areas: symptomatology, diagnosis, social functioning, substance use, school attendance and performance, delinquency and juvenile justice involvement, and stability of living arrangements. Family life will be assessed in the areas of family functioning, caregiver strain, and material resources. These data are collected within 30 days of the child's entry into services and at 6-month intervals for the length of the evaluation.