Factors enhancing adaptive coping and mental health in lesbian youth: a review of the literature

Mental health practitioners who find themselves working with lesbian youth have a limited knowledge base by which to guide them in the helping process. This article explores, examines, and synthesizes current literature in an attempt to uncover factors that serve to enhance adaptive coping strategies for lesbian youth.     

A review of research on violence in same-gender couples: a resource for clinicians

This paper reviews current research that has primarily focused on domestic violence among same-gender couples. Several key issues pertaining to the identification, assessment, and treatment of domestic violence among same-gender couples are examined and outlined to assist clinicians in effectively working with gay and lesbian clients who may be experiencing domestic violence. Resource information is included to help mental health clinicians recognize specific stressors of marginalized individuals as well as assessment and treatment recommendations are made.     

The price-quality relationship: A heuristic model

An on-the-shop-floor experiment is carried out to determine the price-quality relationship for a number of toiletries. Three different and distinct demand curves are obtained. A heuristic model to describe these curves is constructed. The implications of this model for the profit-orientated businessman are then analysed.     

An investigation of foster parent training needs

The training foster parents receive in America, pass the initial training required to certify them to take children into their homes, is not standardized. The Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 (H.R. 3443) requires prospective foster parents to be trained, but it provides only general guidelines for the training content. The training offered differs by state. This research examines what a group of foster parents attending a state foster parent association conference felt they needed in the area of training, to help them fulfil their role. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Foster parents were surveyed and ranked their training needs based on 10 pre‐identified needs. They also responded to an open‐ended question about their training needs. Foster parents ranked training to enhance their ability to help the child adjust in their homes and manage challenging behaviours as most needed. The qualitative data suggested that foster parents have additional needs and some are not related to training, such as the need for respite services.     

Suicide among gay and lesbian adolescents and young adults: a review of the literature

This paper explores the issue of suicide among gay and lesbian adolescents and young adults, as well as provides information to guide clinicians in working effectively with this population. The theoretical perspectives on homosexual identity development by Troiden, Cass, and Lewis are discussed in connection with Durkheim's Suicide Theory and various theoretical risk factors, as well as implications for social work practice. This paper is intended to be utilized as a tool during the assessment phase of treatment with an adolescent or young adult who may be questioning his or her sexuality.