Factors predicting re-referral following crisis intervention for community-based persons with developmental disabilities and behavioral and psychiatric disorders

Characteristics of 98 clients re-referred to receive services from a community-based crisis intervention program were compared to those of program clients who were served during the same 5.25-year period who were not referred. The majority of re-referrals occurred because of the same challenging behavior causing initial referral. Eight-eight percent of re- referral clients received the additional referral by 2 years after initial discharge. For persons under 30, nonfamily residence and initial diagnosis of self-injurious behavior were the strongest predictors. For those over 30, the most important factor was aggression. Recidivism following crisis intervention appears to be a complex function of client characteristics and community capabilities.