The integration of life space crisis intervention (LSCI) and the good lives model (GLM) in Community Institution De Zande, Flanders

Purpose Community institutions (CIs) in Flanders offer support and guidance to young people who committed youth offences to reduce the risk of recidivism and to enhance the juveniles’ well-being. To pursue this dual goal, the CIs base their activities on the good lives model (GLM). Conflicts frequently occur during the daily life in CIs. Life space crisis intervention (LSCI) is used to deal with these conflicts. This paper aims to report on a theoretical study regarding the potential compatibility of LSCI and the GLM. Design/methodology/approach This paper is based on a theoretical study, grounded in literature and practice-based experience, regarding similarities and differences between and the compatibility of LSCI and the GLM. Findings LSCI and the GLM share a number of common aspects related to origin, theoretical background, the importance of human needs, the focus on the “here and now” and future planning. Originality/value It can be concluded that the GLM and LSCI are compatible and can be used in a complementary way. This does not mean that both could be “melted together”, but that they can be integrated and – as such – strengthen each other. In doing so, the GLM provides professionals a framework that can help them to determine forensic treatment goals and to elaborate forensic trajectories, in close cooperation with the young clients themselves. Simultaneously, LSCI, as a specific and concrete method, provides professionals with the necessary tools for daily practice during these trajectories.