Integrating theory and practice in counsellor training

A training programme for counsellors, based on the principle that counselling is a behavioural skill, is described. The programme aimed to improve client-centred skills, though the methods used could also be applied to other approaches to counselling. The pre- and post-course measures of skill were based on (a) a 45-minute recorded interview with a client, and (b) recorded responses to simulated clients, using a language laboratory. During the programme the skills were practised, with feedback on progress, using a behaviour category language. This enabled trainees to become more sensitively aware of others, to become aware of the discrepancies between their intentions and their actions, and to monitor their own progress in learning the skills. Striking changes were observed between the pre- and post-course measures. The results are discussed in relation to counselling training.     

The greening of Cuba? A case study in religion and permaculture in Santiago

ABSTRACT

Using the analysis of ethnographic fieldwork conducted in Santiago, this article explores the relationships between religion, ecology, and permaculture in contemporary Cuba. I focus on qualitative interviews with permaculture activists who are affiliated with the Eastern Baptist Convention. These activists are working with an ecumenical center in Santiago that promotes the creation of sustainable local communities through programs dedicated to social service. This article argues that these individuals have embraced a theocentric ecological ethic that combines social and environmental justice. The cultural value of solidaridad (social solidarity), which has long been part of Cuba’s revolutionary history, is shaping the development of this ecological ethic. The value of solidaridad has helped activists establish relational bonds of mutual aid support, particularly in the aftermath of Cuba’s post-Soviet economic crisis.     

A behaviour category instrument for analysing counselling interactions

This is the first of two papers describing work based on the assumptions that skilled behaviour produced by counsellors can be (a) identified, (b) specified in detail, and (c) produced by training. A behaviour category instrument applicable to counselling interactions was developed, using techniques which had already been applied successfully to the analysis of interpersonal skills in an industrial setting. Client-centred, rational-emotive and gestalt approaches to counselling were initially selected for analysis, on the basis that they represented radically different approaches, that they were relatively well-defined, and that there was material available for analysis from skilled practitioners. The analyses show that the different approaches result in characteristically different behaviour profiles. The results are considered in terms of their potential contribution to outcome research and to training procedures.     

Educational Trends for Expanding Women's Occupational Lives

Institutional changes are described which would facilitate the expansion of women's occupational lives. Part I reviews educational trends in schools, focusing on legislation and other activities to eliminate sex discrimination in federally supported educational institutions. Part II discusses current trends to interface education and work, and proposes a transitional work group model which incorporates feminist values and legitimizes the work place as a place for learning. Part III discusses trends towards participatory democracy and asserts that the training of women to use new technologies in communications and computers will increase their power to shape public policy. The conclusion points to the necessity for compensatory and anticipatory measures to ensure the representation of all groups of women in decision-making environments.