Replicating an evidence-based model in Northern Ireland: an exploration of the influence of staff characterisitics on family outcomes within MST

Implementation scientists suggest that role of practitioners and a nuanced understanding of their characteristics have been underevaluated to date.<br>The aim of this study was to examine the role of staff characteristics on programme outcomes within the context of two Multisystemic Therapy (MST) replication sites in Northern Ireland.<br><br>The methodology was influenced by a pragmatic approach to research and therefore employed both quantitative and qualities methods to explore the research questions.

This involved the collation and analysis of routinely collected data from across 101 families who were supported by 13 MST therapists; the collection of openness measures using standardised questions; and the individual interview of 11 therapists.<br><br>The research found that recruitment is a critical aspect of implementation but a two way screening process may be needed to actively engage candidates in the selection process.