SECTION 704.3. How are the key terms in this chapter defined?

The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) At-risk children and families--A uniquely identified population of children, youth, and families in whom factors have been identified that are associated with the condition to be prevented.

(2) DFPS--Department of Family and Protective Services.

(3) Indicated prevention--Targets individual children, youth, or families who manifest a specific risk factor or behavior, and are thereby judged likely candidates for the condition that is to be prevented. Methods may be group-oriented, family-oriented, or individual-oriented, with a focus on assessing and amplifying strengths and supports at the family and individual level primarily.

(4) Prevention and early intervention services--Programs intended to proactively create conditions and/or personal attributes that promote the well-being of people, in order to prevent child abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency, academic failure, and youth homelessness.

(5) PEI--The Prevention and Early Intervention Services Division within the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).

(6) Selective prevention--Targets specific subgroups whose risk is significantly higher than the general population's due to environmental, demographic, socio-economic, or situational factors; but who are not yet exhibiting the specific behaviors or individual factors identified as risk factors for the condition that is to be prevented. Methods are group-oriented, involving the targeted group of individuals and families, with a focus on assessing and amplifying strengths and supports at the community and family level.

(7) Treatment--Differs from prevention in that it targets individuals and their families who already exhibit the condition to be prevented. Methods may be group-oriented, family-oriented, or individual-oriented, with a focus on remedying problems resulting from the condition and amplifying strengths to avoid recurrence.

(8) Universal prevention--Targets the general population and risks common to all children, youth, and families. Methods impact the general population, with a focus on assessing and amplifying strengths and supports at the community level.

Source Note: The provisions of this §704.3 adopted to be effective May 1, 2003, 28 TexReg 3071; amended to be effective December 1, 2006, 31 TexReg 9038