THE FAMILY-CENTEREDNESS OF INDIVIDUALIZED FAMILY SERVICE PLANS

This study assesses the validity of a rating scale of the family-cente redness of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) and describes I FSPs from several types of agencies. One hundred IFSPs from four agenc y types (home-based early intervention, home-based service coordinatio n, center-based segregated, center-based inclusive) were rated on 21 i tems grouped into Cohesion, Functionality, and Clarity factors. The IF SP Family-Centeredness Rating Scale was successful in finding differen ces between agencies. Overall, the highest rated items were identifyin g the family's role and writing in the active voice. The lowest rated items were integration across disciplines/professionals, specificity, and positiveness. Overwhelmingly more child-related goals were written compared to family-related goals. The importance of family-centered I FSPs is discussed in terms of families' rights and how the document re flects the program's or service provider's philosophy.