Head Start

	Identifying High Risk Behaviors Tools to Strengthen Families and Communities
	These assessment tools are designed to help family workers identify signs and symptoms of substance misuse and abuse, mental health issues, or domestic violence in families. Organization leadership, managers, and family workers can use these tools to assess the presence of high risk behaviors, understand trends among families served, and determine next steps for building partnerships and providing supports. A simple assessment tool is an invaluable resource for front-line workers in conducting brief screenings that address high risk behaviors and the need for ongoing support. The following fact sheet is provided courtesy of the National Program Office of Free to Grow, Mailman School of Public Health. The screening tools may be used in a variety of situations, including during an initial screening, a more formal family assessment, or when you have indicators of problems. It is not recommended to use the tools during a recruitment meeting, without obvious indicators of the presence of high risk behaviors. Some programs use these tools before a formal assessment and plan development to get a head start on providing supportive services to families in need. Identifying High Risk Behaviors» [PDF, 122KB] See also:     Tools to Strengthen Families and Communities [PDF, 20MB] Identifying High Risk Behaviors. Tools to Strengthen Families and Communities. National Program Office of Free to Grow, Mailman School of Public Health. DHHS/ACF/OHS. 2006. English.