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Community Collaboration for Children in Kentucky
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| Presenter(s):
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| Ramona Stone, University of Louisville, ramona.stone@louisville.edu
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| Gerard Barber, University of Louisville, rod.barber@louisville.edu
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| Ruth Huebner, Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, rutha.huebner@ky.gov
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| Audrey Brock, Kentucky Department for Community Based Services, audrey.brock@ky.gov
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| Abstract:
This is an evaluation research of a secondary prevention program for families with children at risk for abuse and/or neglect. We are reporting on the number and characteristics of participants in the intensive in-home based services, the amount and intensity of services provided, and on the outcomes of program. The data was collected quarterly from the CCC agencies located across the state of Kentucky, beween July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2010. Data items include information on each member of the household. The outcomes are measured with 1) the North Carolina Family Assessment Scale and 2) new referral for abuse/neglect ater graduating from CCC program. We are reporting descriptive statistics and propose a multivariate longitudinal model to explain the variation in the NCFAS outcomes.
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Evaluating the Implementation of a Trauma-Informed and Human Rights Curriculum in a School of Social Work
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| Presenter(s):
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| Thomas H Nochajski, State University of New York at Buffalo, thn@buffalo.edu
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| Bincy Wilson, State University of New York at Buffalo, bincywil@buffalo.edu
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| Abstract:
As part of the re-accreditation process for Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the University at Buffalo School of Social Work has undertaken an alternative project. The alternative project focuses on the development and evaluation of infusing the school’s curriculum with a trauma-informed and human rights perspective (TI-HR). This approach fits well in the Buffalo-Niagara Region given the pressing social issues and needs because of the high poverty rate and slow economic growth. The evaluation procedure for the curriculum implementation utilizes a mixed-methods action research orientation to help build the necessary collaborative process with the community, staff, students, and faculty. Within the context of the action research approach, information from the literature, focus groups and interviews was used to build and refine student assessments. Additionally, staff from various community organizations has been used to assist with refinement of a survey of the application of TI-HR for organizations.
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Exploring Behavioral Health Perceptions of U.S. Army Chaplains: Incorporating Quality From Conceptualization to Conclusion
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| Presenter(s):
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| Kimberly Farris, United States Army, kimberlydfarris@gmail.com
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| Abstract:
The purpose of this project is to explore Army Chaplains’ perceptions of behavioral health issues including severity and causal attribution of a presented issue, along with probable course of action if approached for assistance. Examining the Chaplains’ beliefs about causation, such as biological or environmental causes, psychological or social, or other beliefs, may provide insight into their attitudes about Soldiers with serious behavioral health issues and the potential effects on their decision-making processes. The bio-psycho-social-spiritual model is the conceptual model used because of the addition of the spirituality concept. This area warrants further investigation within the military given the rise in suicidal behaviors and unrecognized behavioral health issues but also due to the increased acknowledgment of the importance of spirituality in individuals’ lives. While this project is currently in the implementation phase, the presentation will highlight the significance of operationalizing evaluation quality from conceptualization.
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Integrating Realist Evaluation in Social Work Practice
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| Presenter(s):
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| Mansoor Kazi, State University of New York at Buffalo, mkazi@buffalo.edu
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| Abstract:
This paper presents a new approach to evidence-based practice based on realist evaluation, with the central aim of investigating what interventions work and in what circumstances. As the research designs unfold naturally, data analysis methods are applied to investigate the patterns between client-specific factors, intervention variables, and outcomes. This analysis can be repeated at regular intervals and helps social workers to better target their interventions, and to develop new strategies for users in the circumstances where the interventions are less successful. The paper will include examples from UK and USA, of how services which have a requirement for the repeated use of a reliable outcome measure and the regular updating of information on an electronic database can address the twin problems of application of evidence-based practice and the evaluation of practice to investigate what works and in what contexts, providing regular analyses to inform practice as it unfolds.
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Evaluating Mental Health Instruments Within a Cultural Context
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| Presenter(s):
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| Maureen Rubin, University of Texas, San Antonio, maureen.rubin@utsa.edu
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| Goutham Menon, University of Texas, San Antonio, goutham.menon@utsa.edu
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| Abstract:
Using the person in the environment model the social worker uses his/her clinical and social work knowledge and skills to make a comprehensive assessment of the individual in the context of his/her family and the community that they belong. One area social workers engage is in selecting and using valid and reliable instruments that facilitate measurement of certain behaviors in a client over a period of time. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the process of selecting instruments for clinical and research purposes when working with diverse populations. The paper will address specific areas related to the importance of reliability, validity, norming procedures and the cultural sensitivity of instruments when working with diverse populations. The author will select three instruments predominantly used by social workers in the field of mental health and highlight the pros and cons of using the instrument when working with culturally diverse populations.
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