Outcomes for indigenous children in care presenting at a specialist child and youth mental health service

Abstract

Limited evaluation research has been conducted on the effectiveness of mental health services and intervention provided to Indigenous children and young people (C&YP) in care. The primary objective of the study was to examine the difference in functioning and mental health outcomes of C&YP in care at a specialist mental health service for Indigenous and non-Indigenous C&YP. Of the total 259 C&YP included in this study, 38.2% (N = 99) were Indigenous. Two measures were used to examine C&YP’s mental health and functioning. Indigenous consumers showed a significantly greater improvement in antisocial behaviour, emotional symptoms, and peer relationships compared to non-Indigenous consumers at discharge from the program. The findings of this study provide support for the program’s therapeutic intent to be a culturally supportive tertiary level mental health service for vulnerable C&YP in care. Implications: Equivalent outcomes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous consumers provide support for the program’s intent to be a culturally supportive and safe tertiary level mental health service for vulnerable children and young people in care. Further research is needed to determine the key components of cultural consultation that are advantageous for consumers, care providers, and their families. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)Evolve Therapeutic Services, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Enoggera, QLD, Australia. Other Publishers: Australian Association of Social Workers; Blackwell Publishing. Release Date: 20210722. Correction Date: 20220113. Publication Type: Journal (0100), Peer Reviewed Journal (0110). Format Covered: Electronic. Document Type: Journal Article. Language: EnglishMajor Descriptor: Indigenous Populations; Mental Health; Mental Health Services; Peer Relations; Trauma. Minor Descriptor: Antisocial Behavior; Family. Classification: Community & Social Services (3373). Population: Human (10); Male (30); Female (40). Location: US. Age Group: Adulthood (18 yrs & older) (300). Methodology: Empirical Study; Quantitative Study. References Available: Y. Page Count: 14. Issue Publication Date: Jan, 2022. Publication History: Accepted Date: Jun 3, 2021; First Submitted Date: Jul 3, 2020. Copyright Statement: Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service. 2021. <br />