This work is a critical analysis of the various aspects of social work education and practice. It argues that social work is still a profession searching for a firm identity and a clear and respectful image. The incorporation of science and scientific approach into social work education and practice appears to be the key for the profession to continue to grow and gain its rightful place in the professional and academic communities. Lastly, this book is intended to generate productive dialogues to advance the profession and its educational processes.

Pardeck provides mental health professionals with readily available information on self-help books that can be effectively used with various clinical problems. The materials presented can also be used by those not necessarily trained in clinical intervention; this group would include parents, teachers, and librarians. The approach offered--bibliotherapy--is an emerging clinical technique. There are over 400 self-help books presented and annotated that focus on chemical dependency, coping with change, family violence and dysfunctional families, parenting, personal growth, serious illness,...

Bibliotherapy is a new and creative approach for helping children deal with both small problems and major life crises, such as placement in substitute care. Bibliotherapy literally means treatment through books. It is a process of intervention that involves the child as well as the helping person. Bibliotherapy is an approach that helps children through reading to more clearly understand the problems facing them and to develop solutions for solving problems. Bibliotherapy is particularly useful for children placed in foster care or adoption because it can be implemented by all helping...