Current economic and political problems and the unclear nature of human services delivery systems create problems for the application of an ecological perspective in planning services for children with emotional disturbances. During conservative periods, the ecological approach, which emphasizes the role of environment, is generally replaced by psychological ideologies. The current procedure of organizing service agencies according to categorical services needed by target populations is a serious impediment to an integrated, environmentally oriented approach. Accountability should be person-oriented rather than designed for administrative convenience. Current resources must be used more effectively; ecological programs must rely on creativity and ingenuity. (JAC)