This article describes one exploratory treatment approach designed to help hostile marital partners reach a point at which each is motivated to solve problems rather than seek revenge. (Author)

Staff of a child abuse program in a Philadelphia hospital worked with parents in their own homes to help them develop greater competence as adults and as parents. This article describes the use of social learning theory, with some techniques of behavior therapy, as the basis for treatment. (Author)

Describes Project OPT, an intensive short-term intervention in the homes of families with problems in parent-child interaction. Qualities important in achieving success are: (1) to be accepting; (2) to plan clear objectives; (3) understanding of the family system; and (4) to be skilled in relating to children. (Author)

Is there truth in the stereotype of battered women who enjoy being abused and who have a psychological need for abuse? This study of a grass-roots program providing service to battered women presents thought-provoking data on this and other questions related to causes and consequences of domestic violence. (Author)

Describes a continuum of services to families in their homes to prevent the necessity of child placement. Presents four categories of services--general case management, the comprehensive social worker, the in-house team, and the intraagency team--to aid families who demonstrate psychological difficulty and resource deficits. (Author/JAC)

Whether the union is jeopardized by disappointment, fear of not achieving satisfaction in life, or other problems, the couple in crisis may turn to divorce as the lesser evil. The mediation process is of potential value to those couples who may want to avoid protracted, painful lawsuits. (Author)

The author discusses the utility and drawbacks of social work counseling in the homes of clients based on his own experiences. Such an approach allows the social worker to assess the home and intrafamilial communications patterns plus the adolescents involved often feel more comfortable in the home setting. (EJT)