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Systems of Care as Asset-Building Communities: Implementing Strengths-Based Planning and Positive Youth Development

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American Journal of Community Psychology

Abstract

Using a strength-based approach is one of the hallmarks of the system of care (SOC) initiative, and is consistent with the foundations of community psychology. However, while strengths-based planning is recommended and child and family teams often list child and family strengths, the care plans often do not incorporate the strengths in strategies and interventions. The research base regarding strength implementation and effectiveness is summarized, and needed research is outlined. Steps are offered for promoting the use of strengths in SOCS. Implementing programs from the field of positive youth development is advocated as a way that the educational and criminal justice systems could be more actively engaged in implementing strength-based strategies in SOCs. Promoting SOCs to focus more attentively to asset-building (at the child, family, and community level) is compatible with a public health model that addresses mental health concerns in the context of a full range of supports and services so that all children might experience good mental health and realize their potential.

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Acknowledgments

Initial support for my participation in System of Care Initiatives came from contracts with the North Carolina Department of Human Resources; Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services; Child and Family Services Section as part of the Pitt, Edgecombe,and Nash Counties (Eastern North Carolina) Public-Academic Liaison (PEN-PAL) Project, funded by the Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for Children and Their Families Program (Phase I).

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  1. Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA

    Susan L. McCammon

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Correspondence to Susan L. McCammon.

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McCammon, S.L. Systems of Care as Asset-Building Communities: Implementing Strengths-Based Planning and Positive Youth Development. Am J Community Psychol 49, 556–565 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10464-012-9514-x

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