Integrating services for children and youth with emotional and behavioral disorders

This book is intended to provide an information base for policy and program planners developing collaborative interagency programs for children and youth with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). Its focus is on the multiagency planning and services required by such children and their families. Guidelines for program development are presented as well as program models, research data, and suggested resources. Chapter 1 presents a rationale for interagency services to EBD children and youth based on child and family demographics and the history of interagency services to this popoulation. In chapter 2 the EBD population is described in terms of their behavioral characteristics and the definitions used by various agencies and professional disciplines. Chapter 3 presents information regarding legislation, litigation, funding mechanisms, and advocacy issues affecting interagency collaboration. Chapter 4 describes the most prevalent conceptual models embraced by professionals who provide mental health and education services to EBD children and youth. Implementation strategies and issues are discussed in chapter 5, and the desired outcome and benefits of collaborative programs are highlighted in chapter 6. Chapter 7 contains descriptions of several existing models of interagency service delivery. Conclusions and recommendations are provided in chapter 8. Seven extensive appendices include: a Kentucky legislative bill; a list of 111 interagency resources; and various sample agreements, forms, annual reports, and models from Kentucky, Alaska, and California. (99 references) (DB)