Mental health needs and treatment of foster youth: barriers and opportunities

Bonnie D Kerker; Martha Morrison Dore

doi:10.1037/0002-9432.76.1.138

Mental health needs and treatment of foster youth: barriers and opportunities

Am J Orthopsychiatry. 2006 Jan;76(1):138-47. doi: 10.1037/0002-9432.76.1.138.

Authors

Bonnie D Kerker¹, Martha Morrison Dore

Affiliation

¹ Bureau of Epidemiology, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, NY, USA.

PMID: 16569139
DOI: 10.1037/0002-9432.76.1.138

Abstract

This article reviews current research on emotional and behavioral disorders among children in foster care and summarizes findings regarding utilization of mental health services in this population. Barriers to needed care are explored, practice and policy implications of lack of care are discussed, and alternative, evidence-based treatment options for foster youth are examined and proposed.

MeSH terms

Adolescent
Attitude*
Child
Female
Foster Home Care* / statistics & numerical data
Health Services Needs and Demand*
Humans
Male
Mental Disorders / epidemiology
Mental Disorders / therapy*
Mental Health Services / standards*
Risk Factors
Social Environment