A Survey of Residential Treatment Centers' Outcome Research Practices

Residential treatment agencies face increasing external pressure to conduct outcome evaluation research, due to mandates by accrediting agencies, managed care, and the changing nature of the client population. This study explored the current status of outcome research conducted by a nationwide sample of 93 residential treatment centers for youth with behavioral disorders. Sixty-five percent of agencies interviewed were currently involved in outcome research; however, methodological sophistication varied widely. Common areas assessed included family relationships, legal involvement, school attendance, and emotional well-being. Barriers to quality research included inadequate resources and methodological barriers.