Understanding Multisystem Youth and their Patterns of Services Use

This study integrates data from public schools (absenteeism/truancy), foster care, juvenile justice, homelessness and behavioral health services, to better understand the prevalence and types of multisystem services use in Philadelphia. Results suggest that some multisystem services use is intentional, such as transfers from juvenile justice to mental health residential treatment, whereas other patterns reflect the complex and overlapping needs of youth moving among service sectors. Results may suggest areas of collaborative service planning and integrated service strategies, to improve outcomes and reduce costs and duplication of services.