Leadership that promotes successful implementation of community-based mental health interventions

J Community Psychol. 2020 Jul;48(5):1500-1511. doi: 10.1002/jcop.22343. Epub 2020 Mar 16.

Abstract

Community-based interventions (CBIs) have become an effective approach to promote mental well-being. To increase organizational capacity and effectively deliver CBIs, leadership is crucial. The current study aims to identify leadership qualities that are facilitators of CBI implementation. This paper presents evaluation findings from a national effort emphasizing CBIs for improving the mental well-being of men and boys in 16 local communities. The study utilized a mixed-method design, including both examining each grantee as a case study and conducting a cross-site evaluation. Findings revealed five leadership qualities that contributed to CBIs' success: personal vision, value-based leadership, relationship-oriented leadership, task-oriented leadership, and leadership development. The results outline strategies for strengthening organizational capacity through these leadership qualities. This study adds to the limited literature on leadership qualities that strengthen organizational capacity to successfully implement CBIs and can serve as a guide for funders, program planners, and evaluators.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Community Mental Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Humans
  • Leadership*
  • Male
  • Mental Health
  • Program Development
  • Psychosocial Intervention / organization & administration*
  • United States