Author(s): Kenneth V Hardy & Tracey A Laszloffy

Children & Adolescents

Offering a fresh perspective on treatment, this book presents an overarching framework and many specific strategies for working with violent youth and their families. The authors shed light on the complex interplay of individual, family, community, and societal forces that lead some adolescents to hurt others or themselves. Effective ways to address each of these factors in clinical and school settings are discussed and illustrated with evocative case material. The book provides essential guidance on connecting with aggressive teens and their parents and managing difficult situations that are likely to arise. The strengths-based interventions presented are applicable to a broad range of high-risk behaviors, from bullying and assault to substance abuse, self-mutilation, and suicidality. "A masterpiece!... The authors' high level of respect and compassion for at-risk youth is evident throughout the book. The pearls of wisdom offered here are far-reaching, and can serve as a blueprint for private practitioners, school counselors, and others working with adolescents in schools and the community."-- Matthew D. Selekman, MSW, Partners for Collaborative Solutions, Evanston, Illinois, USA