This book is a primer for practitioners and researchers striving to incorporate the assessment of human strengths, resources, and fulfillment into their work. Contributors examine the scientific underpinnings and practical applications of measures of hope, optimism, self-efficacy, problem-solving, locus of control, creativity, wisdom, courage,…

"The Role of Risk: Mentoring Experiences and Outcomes for Youth with Varying Risk Profiles" presents findings from the first large-scale study to examine how the levels and types of risk youth face may influence their relationships with program-assigned mentors and the benefits they derive from these relationships. The study looked…

The leisure service delivery professional must be aware of problems people have with participating in leisure activities and making choices about what to do with their free time. Problem areas include lack of awareness of leisure, low self-esteem, inertia, and boredom. (DF)

Five holistic health concepts can be incorporated into physical education teaching: (1) integration of the whole person; (2) stress management techniques; (3) establishing a balanced, centered perspective through re-education; (4) awareness training; and (5) responsibility for personal well-being. Well-being is viewed from a physical, mental, and…

Not all children cope equally well with the stresses and traumas life throws their way, and every educator recognizes that "deer in the headlights" look some children get when current events and past traumas combine to trigger a fight-or-flight stress response. No matter how safe the classroom may be in reality, trauma deactivates cognitive…

The impacts of 20 welfare-to-work programs across the United States were evaluated to determine which clients derive the greatest benefits from different approaches to moving individuals from welfare to work. Of the 20 programs examined, 7 were characterized as employment focused, 5 provided a mix of first activities without an employment focus, 4…