Knowledge of and Attitudes Towards Behavioral Health Services Among Older Youth in the Foster Care System

Abstract

This study examined knowledge of and attitudes toward services among 268 17-year olds with psychiatric diagnoses preparing to exit foster care. A structured interview assessed knowledge of services with vignette scenarios and attitudes with a standardized scale. Descriptive statistics described the extent of knowledge and attitudes among this population and regression analyses examined predictors of these dimensions of literacy. Most youth suggested a help source, but responses often lacked specificity. Gender and depression were the strongest predictors of knowledge and attitudes, respectively. Knowing which aspects of literacy are low, and for whom, can inform education efforts to improve access to care in adulthood.

Intergenerational pathways leading to foster care placement of foster care alumni's children

“…Improved mental health literacy in foster care and the general population is also needed (Munson et al . ), as evidenced by low rates of mental health service use among the most vulnerable adolescents and adults (Merikangas et al . ).…”

“…Improved mental health literacy in foster care and the general population is also needed (Munson et al 2011), as evidenced by low rates of mental health service use among the most vulnerable adolescents and adults (Merikangas et al 2011). Mental health literacy is the ability to recognize a mental disorder, knowledge about risk factors and causes, knowledge of and beliefs about helpful resources, positive attitudes towards help-seeking and knowledge of how to seek mental health information (Jorn et al 1997).…”