A description and clinical research application of the control-mastery theory

An introduction to the key concepts in a new psychoanalytic theory, “control-mastery theory” is offered. The role of the trauma and the resulting development of pathogenic beliefs is emphasized in the etiology of all psychopathology. The clinical interventions therapists can use to help patients disconfirm pathogenic beliefs are described. An empirical study is referred to which demonstrates the power of the theory to predict the patient's immediate reactions to the therapist's termination interpretations (Bush & Gassner 1986).     

Preface

Sociological Forum -     

The charity shop volunteer in Scotland: greatest asset or biggest headache?

Employment patterns in various sectors of retailing have received much research attention in recent years, and investigation into charity volunteering is prolific. There is, however, little academic research to date into employment issues in charity retailing or reference to the volunteers who work in charity shops. This has been a neglected topic, left in the hands of those with particular charity interests rather than an academic topic in its own right. This paper looks at the profile of the charity shop volunteer and raises the issues of future changes in technology and competition which might have an impact on current volunteers.     

FAMILY CARERS: SOME IMPEDIMENTS TO EFFECTIVE POLICY AND SERVICE DEVELOPMENT

The shift to community care for people with disabilities in Australia has given rise to some recognition and acknowledgment, in both academic research and policy development, of the importance of their carers. However, information about government policy and services for carers is fragmented and limited. Our knowledge about the prevalence of caregiving and the socio-demographic characteristics of carers and their service needs, is inadequate. Studies in relation to carer use of and satisfaction with services tend to be small scale and focussed on a specific service or carer group. Carer views on broader mainstream service provision have received little attention. This paper identifies gaps in our knowledge as well as the practical and conceptual difficulties in documenting the range of services available and the relevant social policy. These difficulties are likely to reflect barriers to broad and effective policy and service development.     

More than just being there: balancing the participation equation

The research and evaluation evidence is mounting: out-of-school-time (OST) programs can keep young people safe, support working families, and improve academic achievement and social development. Over 6 million children are enrolled in after-school programs nationwide, but an estimated 14.3 million children still care for themselves in the nonschool hours. Because of this discrepancy, OST stakeholders need information about how to maximize participation in OST programs. The Harvard Family Research Project (HRFP) has developed a conceptual model, based on scholarly theory, empirical research, and knowledge gained from providers, that describes the characteristics that predict participation in OST programs as well as the potential benefits of that participation. In the center of the model, participation is conceived as a three-part construct of enrollment, attendance, and engagement. This equation serves as the basis for framing this issue of New Directions for Youth Development. The chapter provides an overview of why participation in OST programs matters for young people, describes some of the barriers and challenges to youth participation, teases out more precise definitions of participation, and presents HFRP's conceptual model of participation. It focuses on the participation equation and concludes by highlighting some overarching themes that recur throughout the issue and that have an impact on future directions for research and evaluation.     

The right stuff for early intervention in psychosis: time, attitude, place, intensity, treatment, & cost

This article shares information about an exciting new approach in psychiatry. During the past 12 years, the authors have worked with young people experiencing their first episode of psychosis. It is clear that intervention at the earliest stages of psychotic illness allows clinicians to make a significant difference in the lives of young people and their families. This article summarizes current intervention strategies, which are considered best practice guidelines for early treatment.     

Preface

Sociological Forum -