Innovative Approaches to Identifying and Responding to the Needs of High Risk Youth

Following a critical review of key issues facing the delivery of effective, cost-attractive services to high-risk youth, and research addressing these experiences, we identify some innovative approaches to identify and respond to the multiple needs of these youth. The importance of providing family services with an ecological focus is stressed. Further, some exciting developments occurring in juvenile assessment centers. involving screening and in-depth assessment, as well as intervention strategies are presented. These innovative developments include for the Tampa Juvenile Assessment Center: 1) a family empowerment intervention service for arrested youth; 2) a family-focused early-intervention, intensive case management service for youth entering a diversion program; and 3) for the Miami-Dade Juvenile Assessment Center, the comprehensive program of research and program development occurring in the context of the National Demonstration Project. We conclude with a discussion of major issues facing the field and the continuing need for a national commitment to help the many troubled youths entering the juvenile justice system.