John Bowlby's (1982) attachment theory can be applied to an existing therapeutic framework to enhance the effectiveness of therapy. Using the Adult Attachment Inventory (AAI), a therapist can identify the type of attachment the client formed with his/her caregivers, and use this to navigate an authentic attachment between client and therapist.…

Brain growth and change are key factors in adolescent development and influence cognitions, emotions, and behavior. Much of the research on the adolescent brain is fairly recent, and mental health practitioners working with adolescents must have knowledge about these changes to more effectively engage their young clients in therapy. The…

This paper focuses on the problems of youth at risk of not successfully making the transition to adulthood. It examines the concept of mentoring and discusses several existing and successful mentoring programs. It looks at mentoring as it relates to young people--teenagers, young adults, and also some "pre-teens." Chapter 1 presents an overview of…

Reviews counseling issues involving Black males, including the need for relevant counseling theories, ethnicity and identity, adolescent and adult development, interpersonal relationships, counselor client relationships, cultural influences, and issues in psychotherapy with urban Black male adolescents. (JAC)

This document presents an introductory course syllabus for use with undergraduate social work students. Course material presented is generic in nature and will be useful to social workers employed in a wide variety of settings. The syllabus maintains a focus on practice and is divided into two major parts. The first part includes a brief overview…

This article discusses development during the early adolescent years with a focus on recent research on the biological, cognitive, self-identity, and motivational changes that occur during this time period and the implications of this research for middle school counselors. Peer influences on early adolescents also are discussed, with the issue of…

"Reclaiming Children and Youth's" guest editor introduces this special issue on promising practices employing strength-based approaches to education and treatment. If we are serious about the commitment to "leave no child behind," then we must be able to cultivate strengths in all children and families. This article surveys the strengths…