Families in Crisis

Abstract

Families are in crisis. With an increasing array of problems affecting children in the home, from child abuse to familial alcoholism, schools are facing a vast array of behavioral and emotional concerns affecting childhood behavior. Unfortunately, many negative behaviors are learned at home. Violent and aggressive behaviors, for example, as well as drug and alcohol abuse, are often demonstrated by parents. From a community perspective, schools are in a pivotal position from which to intervene. Yet, many school-based mental health professionals, including school psychologists, school counselors, and school social workers, lack the knowledge to provide direct interventions. This article examines contemporary problems facing families, considers the home-school linkage, and explores interventions for schools and school-based mental health professionals.     

Resilience in Remarried Families

The present study aims to identify those resilience factors that enable remarried families to withstand and rebound from the disruptive challenges they face. A parent and a child from 38 families independently completed seven questionnaires and answered an open-ended question. The following resilience-associated factors were identified: (1) supportive family relationships, (2) affirming and supportive communication, (3) a sense of control over outcomes in life, (4) activities and routines that help the family to spend time together, (5) a strong marriage relationship, (6) support from family and friends, (7) redefining stressful events and acquiring social support, and (8) spirituality and religion within the family.     

Teaching Families to Collaborate

Abstract

Families, being an essential component of a student's educational program, must feel valued and involved in any planning or discussion relating to children or siblings with disabilities. A collaborative, cooperative, and caring environment must be established in order for parents and professionals to work together. Sensitivity and understanding of ethnic and cultural values and differences is an important element in any interaction between families, caregivers, and other professionals. This article examines the roles, perceptions, and expectations of parents, families, and professionals relating to program planning for persons with disabilities. Guidelines and checklists are provided for families and service providers in order to improve participation and collaboration in conferences and program planning meetings.     

Involving Families in Change

Summary

In this article, a range of matters are considered that have to do with involvement of families with children with severe behavioral and emotional disorders in change. Family participation on education and system change is reviewed, while principles of family participation are enumerated.