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Using a case example of one of the mental health agencies in Florida, we demonstrate the utility of concept mapping for developing a program logic model and articulating a program theory for program assessment. The results of the concept mapping procedure enabled identification of 100 program services as described in statements by staff. Moreover, results revealed four major categories of those services and the main strategies used. This information was used to develop the first three components of a logic model. Concept maps were also used to reveal underlying assumptions built into the agency's theoretical approach.

The dropout of Latino adolescents from public schools has been linked to behavioral health issues such as delinquency and family conflict. Greater understanding is needed about the interplay of cultural, social, and developmental factors in this process. This article reports the findings of 14 group interviews conducted using a participatory approach with Latinos in a large school district in the southeastern USA. Findings support the need for comprehensive school-based interventions along the continuum from early intervention to intensive treatment for Latino adolescents who are at risk of dropping out. Participatory research is recommended for identifying strategies that integrate culturally and developmentally appropriate adaptations into existing behavioral health and dropout prevention services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]