Effectiveness of Strengths-Based Case Management for People with Mental Health Problems in Hong Kong

Authors

  • Kevin Y. C. Hui The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong
  • Cressida W. C. Leung The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong
  • Morgan C. K. Ng The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong
  • Wing Ching Yu The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong
  • Edison K. L. Lau Research & Development Officer
  • Siu-kau Cheung Community College of City University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18060/18428

Keywords:

Strengths-based practice, recovery, mental health, Hong Kong

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of a 6-month strengths-based case management intervention with 45 Chinese participants with mental health problems in Hong Kong. Social workers provided service according to the strengths-based case management (SCM) model developed at the University of Kansas. Changes in participants’ recovery components (Stage of Recovery Scale), mental health symptoms (GHQ), and satisfaction with life were assessed using a single group pretest and posttest design. Results suggest that participants had some improvement in their autonomy, hope, and overall well-being as well as satisfaction with life after receiving services. No significant improvements in the other recovery components and GHQ score were found. Significantly, a number of participants progressed from stages of being overwhelmed or struggling with disability to stages of living with or beyond disability. Strengths-based practice helped participants develop a transformed self which sees hope and possibility despite the vulnerabilities caused by their illness. Though further refinement and testing are vital, adoption of SCM in Hong Kong mental health services is promising.

Author Biographies

Kevin Y. C. Hui, The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong

Social worker

Cressida W. C. Leung, The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong

Senior Manager

Morgan C. K. Ng, The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong

Senior Manager

Wing Ching Yu, The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong

Social Worker

Edison K. L. Lau, Research & Development Officer

The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention, Hong Kong

Siu-kau Cheung, Community College of City University

Division of Social Sciences, Acting Head / Principal Lecturer

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Published

2016-02-08

Issue

Section

Articles