Strengths-Based Case Management: Implementation With High-Risk Youth

Few effective methods of intervention exist for youth at risk for negative life outcomes. One method used successfully with both adults with chronic mental illness and adults with substance abuse problems is strengths-based case management (SBCM). Based on the principles of strengths theory, SBCM aims to assist individuals in identifying and achieving personal goals, with an emphasis on the case manager–client relationship and client self-determination. In the current study, the authors report findings from a feasibility study that implemented SBCM with adolescent runaways. Challenges to implementation, such as financial status, the role of families, abuse and neglect, developmental issues, education, peer relationships, and transportation, are examined. The current findings suggest that it is feasible to successfully implement SBCM with adolescents, but the challenges to application are different with this group compared with adults, given the developmental differences between adolescents and adults. Families in Society: The Journal of Contemporary Social Services | www.familiesinsociety.org | DOI: 10.1606/1044-3894.3595 ©2007 Alliance for Children and Families 87 Arnold, Walsh, Oldham, & Rapp | Strengths-Based Case Management: Implementation With High-Risk Youth incapable of achieving these outcomes. The strengths model was constructed of elements of practice that were thought to be more effective in achieving these specific outcomes, which were different from the standard practice at the time. Now several decades later, clinicians and researchers are currently searching for innovative methods of intervention with another population for whom traditional services frequently are insufficient: adolescent runaways. The present study, based on a small feasibility project, reports on the application of the strengths model of case management to youths who have run away from home and are facing a variety of challenges in their lives. As part of a formal feasibility study, we examined challenges to implementation of this model with adolescents, such as financial status, the role of families, abuse and neglect, developmental stage, education, peer relationships, and transportation.