Proposes a framework for assessing how human service delivery systems function. Identifies factors that influence the ability of agencies to operate as a unified system. Provides an accurate picture of how services are delivered to target populations, and why various systems function as they do. (Author/JAC)

Describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of a training program in the primary prevention of childhood mental disorders for caregivers, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. Cites the program's positive impact, as measured by increases in participants' knowledge and skills. (Author/MJL)

Due to the changing composition of the student body, college health services are becoming increasingly important and could play an active role in student retention. Realities which need to be faced by college health services include: (1) recession and budget cuts; (2) environmental health and safety activities; and (3) the impact of national…

School health education programs should fulfill five expectations: (1) increase understanding about individual and societal health; (2) increase individuals' decision-making skills about health behaviors; (3) increase individuals' abilities to engage in conducive health behaviors; (4) help individuals in their efforts to change health behavior;…

The outcomes of deinstitutionalization programs for criminals and the mentally ill have not matched expectations. Community alternatives have become extensions of the penal system. For the chronically mentally ill, granting the negative right of freedom from organized interference has often meant denial of the right to care and attention.…

This special issue presents seven papers describing programs for children with behavioral disorders. Among topics addressed are use of role playing to foster social skills, truancy intervention, and cooperative efforts by mental health agencies and public schools. (CL)

Service utilization records, often used to determine American Indian psychiatric disorder patterns, can guide selectively focused research. A tentative psychiatric epidemiology research framework contains four major components: community collaboration, sampling techniques, instrument development, and implementation. Available from: White Cloud…

A community-based program was designed to serve as an alternative to traditional short-term hospital treatment and after-care services for the psychiatrically disabled client. Comparisons revealed significant differences in favor of this approach. A rehabilitation counselor worked half-time and was an invaluable member. (Author)

Humanistic gerontology is based on the belief that aging can be a rewarding growth and maturation process. This "humanistic" approach to health care emphasizes preventive education and self-responsibility. Helping professions must respond to the unique needs and potentials of the continually expanding elder population. (Author)

The development of affiliate agreements requires an organized and planned approach with specific goals and strategies, taking into account the complex dynamics that operate in inter-organizational relationships. Successful negotiation leads to decisions in the best interest of each partner, not just preservation of the relationship. (JAC)

Notes the evolving definition of mental health "primary prevention," the future of which is currently jeopardized. Describes a study of the effectiveness of primary prevention in relieving some of the signs and symptoms of teacher burnout. Includes the format of a teacher inservice program which addresses teacher burnout. (SB)

In simulated decision-making situations in a community mental health center, three types of information were studied and rated: political; cost-benefit, and statistical. Only cost-benefit information was rated as significantly influencing administrators' decisions. (MH)

This article provides estimates of emotional and behavioral problems in children and their service utilization patterns. A model for the study of children's help-seeking pathways is offered and used to review the empirical support for variables associated with help-seeking, primarily help-seeking of formal mental health services. (DB)

Found that 12 percent of 392 victims of crime had contact with mental health professionals within few months postcrime. Mental health service use was most prevalent when depressive symptoms were present and crime involved violence. Among victims of violence, urban residence, high social support, internal locus of control, and prior crime…

Suggests nontraditional outreach techniques for use by human services professionals working with urban African-American adolescent fathers. Utilizes data from a cross-sectional study of 133 recent, first-time, unmarried adolescent fathers. (FMW)