Explores historical antecedents of the current conceptualization of men in counseling. Analyzes assumptions regarding men and male behavior and the content and focus of mental health counseling. Provides evidence that a pathology model prevails in the conceptualization and counseling of men. Advocates instead a developmental counseling approach…

Cohabitation can represent a stage in the development of couples' relationships. When counselors are cognizant of the characteristic issues facing such clients, they can minimize issues of morality and legality and focus instead on resolving the essential mental health issues for which counseling has been sought. (EMK)

Notes that men experience gender role transitions over the life span and redefine their thoughts and feelings about masculinity and femininity. Defines 30 gender role transitions that men may experience. Discusses factors activating gender role transitions. Defines fears of femininity as inhibitors to gender role transitions; discusses concepts…

Discusses similarities and differences in counseling older persons, emphasizing importance of recognizing countertransference reactions on the part of mental health counselor when working with older clients. Presents brief review of outcome research which reflects need for all practitioners to evaluate outcomes when using the techniques discussed…

Discusses a Gestalt therapy perspective on the life review process and the use of Gestalt therapy techniques in helping the older client achieve resolution of past conflicts. Notes that, with such resolution, the developmental task of ego integration in the final years of life may be realized. (Author/NB)

Investigated whether aging in adulthood affects disclosure patterns. Analyzed responses of 37 women and 30 men of 3 age groups to Jourard's Self-Disclosure Questionnaire. Results support idea that aging affects self-disclosure patterns. Suggests that nature of mental health varies with age and that developmental counseling approach should be…

Considers effects of physiological and psychological factors on aging and sexuality and addresses the needs of special population groups, such as single older persons and those residing in institutions. Discusses the importance of a holistic and developmental framework that stresses potential for personal growth, intimacy, and sensual enjoyment…

Describes bibliotherapeutic process and techniques that mental health counselors can use to effect intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual growth in older persons. Envisions new opportunities for work with older persons who are chemically dependent, victims of abuse, or Alzheimer patients. Proposes research tool that observes participant's…

The role of coping strategies, perceived control, and problem-solving appraisal in the career-transition processes of 79 midwestern farmers was studied. Findings suggest that problem-solving appraisal and coping strategies are important in the complex coping process. Results lend support to interventions aimed at increasing farmers' sense of…

Presents an overview of fatherhood, providing a general schema for mental health counselors who work with male clients for whom issues pertaining to fatherhood are a factor in counseling. Claims that fatherhood exists along a continuum from traditional to involved, creating various intrapsychic, interpersonal, familial, and cultural conflicts and…