The focus of this research is an exploration of the use of collaborative intersectoral approaches to service delivery as a means of improving responsiveness to the complex needs and issues presented by vulnerable adolescents and young people. There are three central domains and contexts that inform this research:- young people with complex needs- their problematic history of access to, and engagement with a particular cohort of service systems and- the common issues that arise when these service systems interact. The central research question that this thesis has explored is:- What are the principles and guidelines that will inform services operating within an integrated collaborative approach for children, adolescents and young people with complex needs? A multi method design informed by an interpretative research paradigm utilising qualitative research methods was used which consisted of:(i) An analysis of key policy directions within Australia, United Kingdom and United States relating to young people with complex needs.(ii) An analysis was undertaken of current local, national and international literature that relates to policy, program and practice for children, adolescents and young people with complex needs.(iii) In-depth interviews conducted with five stakeholder groups involved with an inter-sectoral service initiative consisting of cross-sector care teams providing a therapeutic service to young people living in residential units.

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University Includes bibliographical references (leaf 50).

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University Includes bibliographical references (leaves 57-58).

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University Includes bibliographical references (leaves 86-87).

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University Includes bibliographical references (leaves 81-82).

Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University Includes bibliographical references (leaves 98-99).

<p> The plight of foster youth having low graduation scores compared to their peers is a prevalent problem depicted in research for years. Statistics show foster youth as being an at risk-group for completing high school education and leading them to a lower quality of life once emancipated from the foster care system. Foster youth face incarceration, unemployment, lower wages, homelessness and substance abuse once adults, and there is a need for the strengthening of educational achievement in this at-risk population. The need for social workers&rsquo; to collaborate with school personnel is a necessary preventative measure to increase the quality of life with foster youth. </p>

acase@tulane.edu