A definition and discussion of cost-benefit/cost-effectiveness analysis and its applications and limitations are presented. Case studies of cost-benefit analysis are given which apply to the mental health field. Includes a brief annotated biliography. (Author/RC)

Articles in this special issue use survey data to provide policymakers with validated indirect needs assessment models that will help them obtain information about populations requiring different levels and types of mental health services. The articles provide the basis for predictive needs assessment and explanatory models of resource allocation.…