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Characteristics of useful evaluation data: An example from community mental health centers
Author(s) -
Kirkhart Karen E.,
Attkisson C. Clifford
Publication year - 1986
Publication title -
american journal of community psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.113
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1573-2770
pISSN - 0091-0562
DOI - 10.1007/bf00911178
Subject(s) - mental health , library science , citation , sociology , psychology , computer science , psychiatry
The results of an empirical study of the use of evaluation data in community mental health centers are reported. A mailed survey on evaluation use was conducted among the directors of 164 community mental health centers in 19 states; 140 completed questionnaires were returned. Results indicate that certain types of data have important impacts in a majority of centers. Systems resources management data were most highly used, followed by need assessment data, and client utilization data. Least used were data on outcomes of intervention and community impact. Data use appears closely tied to the utility of the data in carrying out priority management tasks in a center. Findings have important implications for community psychologists who plan, administer, or evaluate mental health services. The broader role of evaluation in community psychology is also discussed.