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A Standardized Matrix for Mental Health Diversion Program Reporting

NCJ Number
307730
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 39 Issue: 4 Dated: 2023 Pages: 613-632
Date Published
2023
Length
20 pages
Annotation

The purpose of this article is to facilitate data collection and organization, for mental health diversion program reporting, by providing a matrix for characterizing programs and standardizing the reporting of program context, outputs, outcomes, and community settings.

Abstract

The authors of this article propose a matrix to characterize mental health diversion programs and standardize the reporting of program context, outputs, outcomes, and community settings. Data collection for program reporting is challenging because individual programs report on what is relevant to local conditions and may omit or overlook important contextual or structural factors that are key to programmatic success or failure. This limits generalizability and comparability. Using a standard matrix reporting framework clearly lists the constructs of the program, context, and community systems. Two diversion programs are reported demonstrating the use of the matrix. Although different jurisdictions have a wide spectrum of agencies and resources available to support diversion, and may approach the concept differently, standardizing and streamlining reporting will assist with evaluation of diversion and the creation of sustainable programs. Publisher Abstract Provided

Date Published: January 1, 2023