As practitioners dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, we understand the importance of continuously improving our methods and systems of care. A recent study titled How to improve the system of care for adolescents with emotional and behavioural problems from the perspective of care providers: a concept mapping approach offers valuable insights into this very topic. This blog aims to distill the findings from this research and suggest practical ways to implement these outcomes to improve care for adolescents with emotional and behavioral problems (EBP).
The study employed concept mapping, a participatory mixed-method research approach, involving 33 stakeholders from 17 institutions. These stakeholders included psychologists, teachers, social workers, and child psychiatrists, among others. They identified 43 ideas for improving the system of care for adolescents with EBP, grouped into five main clusters:
- Increasing the competencies of care providers and institutions
- Changes at the level of schools and school systems
- Support for existing services targeting children and families
- Increasing the transparency and functionality of the care system
- Modification and creation of legislative conditions
Let's delve into some of the key findings and actionable insights:
1. Increasing Competencies and Opportunities
This cluster was rated as both the most urgent and feasible. Care providers emphasized the need for:
- Development of skills and supervision for experts working with children and adolescents with EBP
- Creation of professional teams in schools, including psychologists and social workers
- Effective screening tools for early detection of EBP
Implementing these measures can directly enhance the quality of care provided. Schools can act as hubs for these professional teams, facilitating early intervention and continuous support.
2. Changes in Schools and School Systems
Schools play a critical role in the lives of adolescents. The study suggests:
- Improving the competencies of school staff in dealing with EBP
- Creating multidisciplinary support teams within schools
By equipping schools with the necessary resources and training, we can ensure that students receive timely and effective support.
3. Supporting Existing Services
Strengthening existing services is crucial. Key recommendations include:
- Comprehensive work with families
- Support for outreach services to bring care to clients
- Educating parents about EBP and developmental milestones
These measures aim to create a supportive environment for adolescents, involving families and communities in the care process.
4. Increasing Transparency and Functionality
Transparency and efficient functioning of the care system are vital. Recommendations include:
- Streamlining administrative processes
- Improving intersectoral cooperation
Efforts to increase transparency can help build trust and ensure that care is accessible and efficient.
5. Legislative Modifications
Although deemed less feasible, legislative changes are crucial for long-term improvements. Suggestions include:
- Adjusting legislation to enhance school competencies in crisis situations
- Creating supportive legislative frameworks for care providers
While these changes may take time, they are essential for creating a robust and supportive care system.
In conclusion, the study highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to improving the system of care for adolescents with EBP. By focusing on increasing competencies, supporting existing services, enhancing transparency, and advocating for legislative changes, we can create a more effective and supportive environment for our youth.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: How to improve the system of care for adolescents with emotional and behavioural problems from the perspective of care providers: a concept mapping approach.
