Because such youth often have an array of problems, this 49-item instrument is designed to provide an in-depth profile of individual youth. The CARE measures risk factors (youth characteristics, peer relationships, school and education issues, family dynamics) and protective factors. The CARE can be completed and scored in 15 to 30 minutes. It is scored using a combination of interview and file review.
The resulting score helps clinicians to gauge the intensity of potential behavior problems and to identify appropriate types and level of services needed.
The primary evaluation was done over a five-year period with youth from ages 2 to 19. The sample included youth in outpatient treatment programs and residential settings, those imprisoned for violent crimes, and other young people with no known psychiatric or behavior problems. Results show a convergent validity of .777 between the total CARE score and severity of behavior problems. The split-half reliability is .849 and the Spearman Brown reliability is .918. The Case Management Planning Forms can be completed by hand or by using the optional tabulation software.
