Abstract
This article addresses the primary modifications necessary for system change to better meet the mental health needs of children
under the age of three. The role of risk and resiliency factors in the young child, family and community and the necessity
for a comprehensive community infant-family mental health system with a focus on the whole family are addressed. Barriers
to care within early childhood systems of care are examined, including stigma, community referral and collaboration, diagnostic
concerns during infancy, issues around family engagement, empowerment and partnership, funding of comprehensive and well coordinated
infant-family services, workforce capacity and evaluation. Recommendations for implementation of system changes at the community
and federal levels are proposed.
under the age of three. The role of risk and resiliency factors in the young child, family and community and the necessity
for a comprehensive community infant-family mental health system with a focus on the whole family are addressed. Barriers
to care within early childhood systems of care are examined, including stigma, community referral and collaboration, diagnostic
concerns during infancy, issues around family engagement, empowerment and partnership, funding of comprehensive and well coordinated
infant-family services, workforce capacity and evaluation. Recommendations for implementation of system changes at the community
and federal levels are proposed.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-13
- DOI 10.1007/s10464-011-9458-6
- Authors
- Karen Moran Finello, Keck School of Medicine, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, University of Southern California-UCEDD, Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd, MS #53, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
- Marie Kanne Poulsen, Keck School of Medicine, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, University of Southern California-UCEDD, Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd, MS #53, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
- Journal American Journal of Community Psychology
- Online ISSN 1573-2770
- Print ISSN 0091-0562