What is it about?
This study uses a machine learning approach to identify factors influencing caregivers’ decisions to seek counseling services for adolescents at risk of maltreatment and neglect. The research highlights key factors such as youth internalizing and externalizing mental health problems, caregiver stress related to youth behavior, and whether the caregiver is a relative or non-relative. These findings provide insights into which families are more likely to recognize a need for and utilize mental health services for their adolescents.
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Why is it important?
Adolescents who experience maltreatment face elevated risks for mental health issues, yet barriers often prevent them from accessing services. This research identifies critical predictors that can help child welfare and mental health systems better engage families in seeking care. The use of machine learning offers a novel, data-driven way to improve support for families in need, ensuring that resources are directed where they are most needed.
Perspectives
This study underscores the importance of understanding caregiver decisions in the context of adolescent mental health needs. By identifying high-value predictors, we aim to inform child welfare and mental health practitioners on how to improve access to care. We hope this work inspires new strategies for addressing systemic barriers and engaging caregivers early in the process, ultimately fostering better outcomes for at-risk youth.
Dr. Alejandro L. Vázquez
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: High value correlates of caregiver reported counseling service need and utilization for adolescents at-risk for childhood maltreatment and neglect, PLOS One, October 2021, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258082.
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