Two objectives of the paraprofessional model-to open pathways for upward mobility in service jobs and to use indigenous people as mediators between agency and clientele-seem to conflict with each other. This study investigates the extent to which this potential dilemma is reflected in the aspirations of paraprofessional trainees. (Author)

This exploratory study analyzes different types of indigenous workers and their respective role strains. The author explains why one type seems better fitted for community organizing tasks, another for bridge'' and outreach roles, and a third for counseling and referral duties. (Author)

Increasing attention is being paid to group homes as an alternative form of residential care for adolescents. In the home described here, young people who had been recommended for hospitalization or long-term residential treatment were helped by nonprofessional counselors to deal with their problems successfully. (Author)

The author argues that the secret of successful use of indigenous paraprofessionals in social and health services is the development of purposeful assignments, respect and meaningful status for the paraprofessionals as contributing members of a service team. (Author)

An analysis of the selection and training processes and methods used to integrate the nonprofessional into the agency structure shows that such methods generally result in a loss of the valued skills. The author discusses methods for maintaining these skills and concludes that compartmentalization is a viable short run approach. (Author)