Research indicates that many social work practitioners are interested in using spiritual interventions in clinical settings. Unfortunately, studies also indicate that practitioners have frequently received minimal training on the topic during their graduate education. Drawing from the evidence-based practice movement, this article develops some…

In the United States, genetic research, as well as policy and practice innovations based on this research, has expanded greatly over the past few decades. This expansion is indicated, for example, by the mapping of the human genome, an expansion of genetic counseling, and other biogenetic research. Also, a disability rights movement that in many…

Empathy is more important than ever to a national population worried about difficult political and socioeconomic situations. During the last 10 years, an enormous amount of research has been carried out to elucidate the nature, mechanism, and function of empathy. New research from social-cognitive neuroscience and related fields indicates that,…

Current research on stepfamily well-being often overlooks the perspective of children, and deals primarily with factors as reported by the adults involved. The authors examine a number of family role characteristics, parental subsystem characteristics, and resources that might influence how children perceive the quality of their stepfamily…

Research on parental bereavement has focused historically on single or partnered cross-gendered (heterosexual) bereaved parents. No previous studies have examined the unique experiences of same-gendered bereaved parents. This multiple-case study focused on child death in same-gendered-parent families. The goal of this study was to yield…

Firearms constitute an environmental risk factor for suicide among all age groups. Although other professions have been urged to assess firearm availability and advocate for the removal of firearms of their clients, little is known about the practices and the techniques within the social work profession. The present study surveyed a random sample…

Short-term psychosocial casework had a positive effect on the clinical symptoms and targeted complaints of a sample of Chicano clients attending two mental health clinics as outpatients. In this article the authors examine the psychosocial, intercultural, interactionist, and generic skills of workers that were significantly correlated with the…

A counselor working with an individual who is trying to sort out a personal problem might find it helpful to draw pictures, if only doodles, to help the client clarify the situation. (Author/HMV)

The author contends that the challenging task facing the professional facilitator of self-help groups is a competent grasp of group theory and a willingness to let the group work independently after organizing it. (Author/HMV)

Currently death is a subject of much study and discussion. Hospital social workers should capitalize on this new climate of opinion by reaching out to terminally ill patients and their families. (Author)

Concerned professionals in various parts of the country have formed crisis-oriented counseling services to meet the needs of women who request abortions. This article presents information obtained from a sample of women seeking abortions and discusses the counselor's role in the decision making process. (Author)

The authors present a technique they have found useful with clients seeking sex therapy. (HMV)

The author describes the strategy followed in a multiservice center for industrial employees. The center dealt mainly with alcoholism, drug abuse and family problems. During the first four months most of the cases were self-referred and reported afterwards that they had benefitted from their contact with the center. (SE)

The issue of short-term versus long-term treatment has been the focus of much controversy. After examining the arguments on both sides, the author concludes that certain short-term treatment strategies can be used effectively in situations usually seen as requiring long-term treatment. (Author)

Discusses a four-year AIDS prevention telephone-counseling study for men who have sex with men. Describes the skills, knowledge, and sensitivity necessary to staff the project. Suggestions are made for others who intend to implement similar services. (FC)