Integrated Services for Children and Families : Opportunities for Psychological Practice

Demographic and economic changes in recent years have led to unacceptable rates of infant mortality, child abuse and neglect, psychological disorders, violence and aggression, and substance abuse in the US.

As the need for family support increases, the existing service systems appear to be overwhelmed by the magnitude of these problems.

There is an emerging consensus among professionals and consumers that the current delivery system is fragmented and ineffective.

Effective solutions must go beyond simply "adding" more funding and programmes.

This edited book explores the need for, and nature of, comprehensive and integrated social services and examines the new role that professional psychologists can play in these emerging systems.

The book is organized around three broad themes: What are integrated services and why do we need them?

How have integrated services been implemented in a variety of school and community settings?

What implications does the approach have for the practice of psychology?

Throughout, the discussion in informed by a belief in the underlying psychological competence and self-sufficiency of families and children, and by a concern for their needs and desires. This book should be of interest to professional psychologists and social workers employed in schools and in primary health care, mental health and social service settings.