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Deciphering the Tower of Babel: Examining the Theory Base for Wraparound Fidelity

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Abstract

I present the results of a study that examined a theoretical and paradigmatic basis to better define fidelity in a wraparound approach to service delivery. I first examined the literature to clarify terms and to suggest a paradigmatic and theoretical base for the easily misinterpreted, value-laden philosophy of wraparound. Two deceptively simple constructs were identified and examined through a multi-case, multi-method design. Results suggested that wraparound is an emerging collaborative model based in critical and constructivist thought and in ecological systems theory. My study provides a preliminary but essential step in clarifying the process of implementation and evaluation of the wraparound approach.

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Malysiak, R. Deciphering the Tower of Babel: Examining the Theory Base for Wraparound Fidelity. Journal of Child and Family Studies 7, 11–25 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022903928363

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022903928363

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