Preventive programs designed to support and strengthen families with adolescents are being implemented in response to changes in American society and the nature of adolescence. This paper examines such programs by addressing these questions: (1) What are the primary functions of families in the raising of adolescents? (2) What factors support and…

Outlines Action Counseling, a normological, problem-solving method, which capitalizes on the strengths of poor families for solving family problems and improving their situation. Steps include setting a theme, identifying and clarifying positively stated goals, designing mutually agreed upon action plans, overcoming obstacles, obtaining…

Describes a project designed to reach low-income, multiproblem families, utilizing couples therapy in the home. Reviews major characteristics of multiproblem families. Emphasized therapeutic techniques based on modeling, role playing, and demonstration. Designed tasks which increased the individual and couple functioning of spouses. Reinforced…

Describes a program based in St. Paul, Minnesota, which provides whole-family foster care for a population of adult parents and minor children without stable residences, in which the children are at risk of placement in out-of-home care. (HTH)

These conference proceedings contain short abstracts of major sessions from the conference of the National Council on Family Relations held in observance of the 1994 United Nations International Year of the Family. Topics for the sessions were wide ranging, and included: (1) parenting and parent education; (2) marriage and family relationships;…