Helen Northen

When should someone not be admitted to a group? How can a reluctant child be persuaded to participate in a group? What is the best way to deal with issues of low self-esteem? Part of the enduring appeal of this classic work is its vivid depiction of actual group work and the challenges that arise. Opening with an instructive survey of the roots and development of group social work-from the first YMCA to the establishment of the NASW-Northen and Kurland contribute to the integration of theory and research that forms the basis of group social work practice. Using an ecosystem approach, they set forth a generic framework for practice with diverse groups, establishing a common core of values, knowledge, purposes, and interventions that can be applied to different populations and situations. With clear step-by-step guidance, this book covers the major issues as well as the ethical challenges that working with groups entails. This fully revised and updated edition includes seven new chapters that reflect the most recent developments in group practice.

This new edition of Helen Northen's classic text has been considerably expanded to update its coverage of the biological, psychological, and sociocultural knowledge necessary for effective social work practice. Sill unmatched as a comprehensive guide to contemporary clinical social work, this classical work now features five new chapters addressing the most important issues in the field. The second edition of Clinical Social Work: Knowledge and Skills takes into account the diverse populations social workers encounter-age, race, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation are all considered. Northen also discusses contemporary social problems, such as AIDS, homelessness, and family violence. Clinical Social Work: Knowledge and Skills covers the theoretical knowledge base every social worker needs to know and lucidly demonstrates how this knowledge can be applied with sensitivity and competence among the diverse groups social workers see at the turn of the millennium.