The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise: (1) At-risk children and families--A uniquely identified population of children, youth, and families in whom factors have been identified that are associated with the condition to be prevented. (2) DFPS--Department of Family and Protective Services. (3) Indicated prevention--Targets individual children, youth, or families who manifest a specific risk factor or behavior, and are thereby judged likely candidates for the condition that is to be prevented. Methods may be group-oriented, family-oriented, or individual-oriented, with a focus on assessing and amplifying strengths and supports at the family and individual level primarily. (4) Prevention and early intervention services--Programs intended to proactively create conditions and/or personal attributes that promote the well-being of people, in order to prevent child abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency, academic failure, and youth homelessness. (5) PEI--The Prevention and Early Intervention Services Division within the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). (6) Selective prevention--Targets specific subgroups whose risk is significantly higher than the general population's due to environmental, demographic, socio-economic, or situational factors; but who are not yet exhibiting the specific behaviors or individual factors identified as risk factors for the condition that is to be prevented. Methods are group-oriented, involving the targeted group of individuals and families, with a focus on assessing and amplifying strengths and supports at the community and family level. (7) Treatment--Differs from prevention in that it targets individuals and their families who already exhibit the condition to be prevented. Methods may be group-oriented, family-oriented, or individual-oriented, with a focus on remedying problems resulting from the condition and amplifying strengths to avoid recurrence. (8) Universal prevention--Targets the general population and risks common to all children, youth, and families. Methods impact the general population, with a focus on assessing and amplifying strengths and supports at the community level. |
