Public defender sees drug use, runaways, etc. Mental health definition could close the door for some juvenile offenders. There are cultural assumptions that do not apply. Assets list will hopefully bring in children with needs other than being diagnosed as mentally ill, etc. Labels can also hold risks.
Diagnosis can help to know how to treat.
Need to identify asset checklist and how it is to be used. Research was done with children. No clear-cut answer. Child's perspective directs their behavior. Asset list may need to be given to parents to get their perspectives.