Encounters, defined as contacts between a social worker and client that have not been regularly scheduled, represent an alternative to the classic casework method. Presents a consumer-oriented strategy based on clinical experience in a public community mental health center in a large urban area. (Author)

Human communication is a complex process. For individuals from different regional, ethnic, or racial backgrounds, communication may be difficult. Focuses on some common ways individuals fail to communicate clearly and the significance of this failure for social work practice. (Author)

Describes a group therapy program for recently widowed females, whose purpose was to allow individuals to share with each other the meaning of widowhood. A sense of group identity evolved which helped the women develop insight and courage to deal effectively with their situation. (Author/HLM)

Group process is defined as the change taking place in interactions among individuals over time. Examines how this occurs within growth-oriented groups that have certain developmental characteristics in common, even though specific group objectives may vary. (Author)