Evaluation of a service delivery programme : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University

Abstract

The present study is an evaluation of the service delivery programme offered at the Palmerston North Plunket-Karitane family unit. The study had three aims: firstly, to replicate and extend an investigation conducted on a similar programme in Dunedin; secondly, to examine the eitiology and intensity of stress experienced by the service delivery staff; and thirdly, to systematically evaluate programme process and outcome. Results obtained in the present study were in many respects similar to those obtained in the Dunedin study, but some significant differences are also noted. Although valuable information pertaining to the causes of stress was obtained, the service delivery staff recorded stress levels comparable to other working women. Process and outcome evaluation data indicated that the programme was functioning in accordance with its aims and objectives, however recommendations for programme modification and improvement are offered.