Applying a Community-based Participatory Research Approach to the Development of a Structured Assessment Tool: A Case Study in a Multiservice Youth Initiative

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical time to intervene with youth at risk of serious harmful behaviors, such as violence, and to ensure that key developmental needs are met. There are a number of research-based tools and programs that address these goals, but real-world implementation presents challenges that limit the feasibility of these strategies in many settings. Cost, lack of implementation infrastructure, and concern about local fit and buy-in all contribute to the limited use of research-based tools in community settings. These challenges are particularly prominent in community-wide initiatives which coordinate efforts across multiple systems. Successful examples of efforts and strategies to overcome these challenges are needed. This paper presents a case study of a community-based participatory research (CBPR) orientation employed in the development of an assessment and referral system within the comprehensive service network of a youth violence prevention initiative in Seattle, WA. Findings from qualitative interviews and tool validation analyses illustrate the feasibility and utility of applying CBPR principles to tool adaptation efforts. Our experience demonstrates the value of a CBPR approach in balancing provider needs with research-based assessment practices to ensure youth receive well-targeted services across multiple service settings.