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SERVICES TO ADOLESCENTS
Abstract
The following literature review examines the research on the prevention of mental illness In children and adolescents; relevant theories also are surveyed. The results point to directions for future research and present public policy. A risk-reduction model in preventative research, whereby risk factors are identified and matched to empirically tested Interventions, Is most promising. If risk factors can be decreased or in some way altered while protective factors are enhanced, the likelihood of at-risk children eventually developing a mental disorder would decrease-The ultimate goal is to achieve optimal prevention by building the principles of prevention Into the ordinary activities of everyday life and into community structures to enhance development over the entire life span.
ONE OF THE MOST POTENT risk factors for the development of psychopathology is a family history of psychopathology. For many mental disorders, there is convincing evidence for a genetic predisposition, but for practically all disorders there is also evidence that the genetic factors do not act alone, and that environmental factors can precipitate or delay onset. However, at the present time, the majority of resources available for mental-health service provision in the United States, whether human or material, are allocated to the treatment or rehabilitation of those experiencing psychiatric disorders (Blair, 1992). In contrast, the promotion of mental health and the prevention of mental illness have been given relatively few resources and relatively little status (Sommerschild, 1987). Despite limited resources, researchers have made significant advances in the identification of child characteristics, risk factors, and protective factors associated with the prevention of childhood mental disorders. This literature review examines theoretical perspectives and research findings, with an emphasis on the risk-reduction model, prevention interventions, research methodologies, and policy implications concerning the prevention of child and adolescent mental disorders.
Theoretical Perspectives
Theory facilitates prediction. What then are the theories that best predict childhood mental disorders? Are they adequate? Do they allow researchers to develop models that explain specific pathways by which preventive effective interventions can be developed? Kagan (1998) would argue no. He states that empiricism in psychology is only a little more than 100 years old and that much theory building and research to date has been done on animals, noting, "Homo sapiens possess a small number...