A theory of change describes why something is expected to work. It begins by clearly stating what is being done and then why this impacts results. The VVDB theory of change for wraparound tells us why wraparound works for youth and families and why it is different from other services and processes. It also sets expectations for what we want to accomplish with families. The formal theoretical foundation of the wraparound process builds on evolving needs theory; Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy (1977); Bronfenbrenner’s theory of human ecology (1979); and integration of plans, services and supports across the family. Simply put, the theory of change for wraparound is:

Meeting the basic needs and strengthening the social networks of children with severe mental health challenges and their families while enhancing their belief that they can create a successful future, will result in good or at least improved lives. This will be further enhanced by integrating their services and supports into a single plan of action.

The first component of this theory of change is that wraparound helps the youth and family identify the needs that are most important to them (voice) and then focuses efforts in helping them to meet these needs (choice). The second component is helping the youth and family to develop the skills and confidence to believe they can do this successfully and continue to do it after formal wraparound ends. The third component is helping them to develop and strengthen the natural support networks that can help them meet these needs and sustain the youth and family in the future. Families with complex needs often have multiple and competing plans and service providers and supports. Bringing these together into a single and simplified plan will greatly improve their prognosis of success.

The theory of change is not just an academic exercise but should guide decision making by the Care Coordinator and Family Partner as they implement the wraparound process. These questions may be the most important guide for Care Coordinators and Family Partners as they implement wraparound.

• Have we identified and are we working on the needs that are most important to the family?


• How does what I am doing now impact the confidence and ability of the youth and family to get their own needs met?


• How does what I am doing support building and strengthening the natural support system for the youth and family?


• Are the plans for the family integrated and reasonable for them to implement?