Traces the history of self-help in the African American community, with emphasis on services and programs for children. Claims that the traditions of self-help are very much alive in the African American community, and are manifest in a range of activities. Illustrates contemporary models of self-help from the example of one adoption agency. (MOK)

Using the perspective of sociology and social welfare, the report focuses on issues and concerns by considering the concepts and underpinnings of personal development, social development, community development, women's issues, rural social welfare, and self-help. Contexts are the social development and social welfare of total societies as well as…

The recent public discussion of self-help within the African-American community is examined in light of the Reagan administration's rhetoric about reducing the federal government's role in providing social welfare. An alternative perspective is offered on African-American self-reliance in the postindustrial managerial society. (SLD)