Family Development Matrix

Questions and Answers about the Family Development Matrix

General Information:

• Name of Tool, Test or Measure:
  Family Development Matrix (FDM)
  
  
• Developer:
  Institute for Community Collaborative Studies (ICCS), California State University, Monterey Bay
  
  
• Publisher:
  Institute for Community Collaborative Studies, California State University, Monterey Bay (1997-2006)

1. How and where it can be acquired?
   
   A public domain description of the tool is available on-line at http://hhspp.csumb.edu/community/matrix/familymatrix.htm.
   Customization is available through ICCS, California State University, Monterey Bay, 100 Campus Center, Bldg. 86D, Seaside, CA 93955. (831) 582-3624. Contact: Jerry Endres
   
   
2. With what ages and populations can it be used?
   
   The FDM is meant to be used with adults.
   
   
3. What languages is it available in?
   
   Individual programs and networks using the FDM translate it to facilitate use of language of origin.
   
   
4. Is it for screening, assessment or diagnosis?
   
   The FDM is used as an assessment and empowerment evaluation tool for case management when used one-on-one with individuals and families or from a community perspective. When data is aggregated, it is used for program evaluation, strategic planning and policy advocacy purposes.
   
   
5. What formats is the Family Development Matrix available in? (hardcopy, on-line, CD-Rom, etc.):
   
   The public domain version is available on-line
   at http://hhspp.csumb.edu/community/matrix/familymatrix.htm.
   ICCS maintains an online access to the Matrix called the Matrix Creator. This easy to use system enables the user to access indicators from existing programs and enter data, assess strengths and areas of concern, case management plan, and chart results.
   
   
6. Are special tools or settings needed to administer?
   
   No special tools or settings are needed to administer the FDM, other than internet access. In our experience, the FDM has been successfully utilized in institutional settings, community-based settings, schools, family support agencies, and during home visits.
   
   
7. How is the the tool administered?
   
   The tool is administered differently by different providers, depending on their agency’s focus and funder’s requirements. Generally the family worker and family member use the indicators to discuss the family situation to determine where the family is strong and where it is challenged. They identify indicator goals for targeted change, and set plans in collaboration with the service program and external resources. Then the family worker develops a Family Empowerment Plan with the family. Follow-up assessments are scheduled at 3-4 month intervals where the FDM is reviewed again and change scores are determined in the database.
   
   
8. What is the scoring process and how much time does it take to complete the scoring?
   
   The time it takes to complete scoring the FDM depends on how many indicators are scored. The actual scoring takes place with the client's involvement. In practice, the process can take between 10 minutes and an hour or more.
   
   
9. What does the total score (or subscales scores) mean?
   
   The FDM utilizes defined status levels for each indicator, based on outcome statements of behaviors or conditions. The levels are: 1= in crisis, 2= at-risk, 3= stable, 4= safe,self-sufficient.
   
   
10. What are the norm groups for this tool?
    
    Each program using the Matrix norms the tool with their own population via three tests:
    1. Content and Criterion Validity - A revising tool using feedback from service population.
    2. Inter-Rater Reliabilty - A revising tool using case studies across a range of users to assure consistency of scoring.
    3. Pilot Test - All users of the tool test it with families to ensure understanding of the tool and the logic of the status levels.
       
       
11. Where is the Family Development Model being used?
    
    Currently the FDM is in use by ICCS trained Matrix partners in approximately 150 programs in California, Florida, Nevada, Georgia, Iowa and Ohio. A wide variety of programs include: Early Head Start, Head Start, Pre-K Education, Family Resource Centers, Neighborhood Centers, Multicultural Programs, Senior Support Programs, Youth Diversion, Student Mentoring, Teen Parenting, Adoption Wraparound, Mental Health, Intergenerational Pre-K Mentoring, Elder Volunteers and Employment, Senior Service Systems Change, Public Library, Long-term Care Culture Change.
    
    
12. What training and technical assistance is available?
    
    ICCS offers online access to the Matrix Creator with or without training and technical help. Fees are based on sliding scales and intended use and number of programs.

For more information contact:

JERRY ENDRES M.S.W.
Director, Institute for Community Collaborative Studies
Senior Research Scientist and Lecturer
Department of Health, Human Services and Public Policy
California State University Monterey Bay
Phone: 831.582.3624
Fax: 831.582.3899
jerry_endres@csumb.edu
http://hhspp.csumb.edu