Strengths-First: An empowering case management model for multiethnic sexual minority youth
Craig, S. L. (2012). Strengths-First: An empowering case management model for multiethnic sexual minority youth. Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services, 39(3), 274–288. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538720.2012.697833
Highlights
Background
Sexual minority youth (SMY) are at high risk for violence, depression, and familial rejection.
Strengths-based case management (SBCM) is an intervention in which a case manager leverages a client’s existing strengths to achieve client-identified goals.
This is the first study to explore the influence of case management on multiethnic sexual minority youths (MSMY), and to capture strengths as a personalized intervention.
Study Description
Strengths First is a one-on-one social service intervention designed to help MSMY solve problems and reduce the barriers to their improvement in overall functioning
Strengths First highlighted MSMY strengths by identifying personal assets, accomplishments, and sources of support. The core components of this SBCM are illustrated
This study provided a profile of participants’ self-reported strengths and risk factors
Key findings
SBCM showed promise with MSMY, resulting in youth meeting their objectives
Specific challenges in the areas of family engagement and service accessibility were supported by Strengths First adaptations to ensure youth success
A key ingredient of SBCM for MSMY is the centrality of the close relationship with the case manager
Once engaged, MSMY will seek and stay in voluntary clinical programs as observed by the fairly low rates of attrition (10%)
Services for MSMY should consider field-based service delivery (taking services to youth in Their homes, schools and communities as marginalized youth populations may find it difficult to engage in services because of a multitude of barriers such as transportation or lack of family support
Once engaged, MSMY will seek and stay in voluntary clinical programs as observed by the fairly low rates of attrition (10%)
Services for MSMY should consider field-based service delivery (taking services to youth in Their homes, schools and communities as marginalized youth populations may find it difficult to engage in services because of a multitude of barriers such as transportation or lack of family support
