Enhancing knowledge of adolescent mental health among law enforcement: Implementing youth-focused crisis intervention team training

Sheryl Kubiak, Daria Shamrova and Erin Comartin

Evaluation and Program Planning, 2019, vol. 73, issue C, 44-52

Abstract: This study explores the feasibility, acceptability, fidelity, and outcomes of a youth version of the Crisis Intervention Team training (CIT-Y). This intervention is designed to keep youth with a mental health problem out of the criminal/legal system by equipping police officers with developmentally appropriate information and techniques. Whereas much is known about the adult-focused CIT training, little is known about the youth-focused training. This preliminary investigation uses multiple methods (training observations, officer interviews, and pre/post-tests) to assesses the implementation of CIT-Y in two Midwest counties. Multiple 8-hour training sessions were offered in both counties with 127 officers participating and completing the pre/post measure. The findings of this study confirmed that CIT-Y training was feasible in these counties and acceptable to the officers who participated. Outcomes from the pre/post-tests show that 86% of officers positively changed their knowledge and attitudes regarding youth with mental health problems. Interviews revealed a positive impact on officers’ reported behaviors. While this preliminary investigation of CIT-Y showed positive outcomes, recommendations for enhancing the curriculum and subsequent research are discussed.

Keywords: Crisis Intervention Team training; Law enforcement training; Feasibility; Acceptability; Fidelity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:epplan:v:73:y:2019:i:c:p:44-52

DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2018.11.006

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