Department of the Navy Family Advocacy Program: Service Need and Service Response. Phase II Report: Assessment

Abstract

Abstract : This report assesses the operation of the Navy Family Advocacy Program at the command level. Based on site visits to 13 Navy and Marine Corps bases worldwide, the report: describes the structure and operational context of the programs in the late winter of 1983; assesses the relationship between service need and service response; identifies major program strengths, program concerns, and program dilemmas; and discusses the interactions between medical and nonmedical personnel, both military and civilian, in the treatment and prevention of child abuse, spouse abuse, and sexual assault or rape. The report also identifies program needs and recommendations for program improvement. Findings are based on approximately 300 individual and group personal interviews with Department of the Navy and civilian personnel, case statistics, program documents, and structured observations of Family Advocacy Committee meetings. The findings indicate a high degree of variation in program structure and operation across sites. Program strengths include interagency cooperation availability of civilian resources, command support, and ongoing training of Family Advocacy participants. Areas of concern include: lack of program clarity, insufficient staff resources, role ambiguity between medical and line personnel, focus on child maltreatment and confusion about reporting procedures. Differences in base and community resources and the perceived scope of abuse and neglect often are intervening variables in program development. (Author)