Claims successful institutionalization of emancipation programs for youths in foster care will depend on a variety of factors, including astute political opposition to the current administration, production of accurate outcome data from the programs, community acceptance, and agency change. Contends independent living is a healthy goal for…

Why are child welfare agencies more hospitable to assessment than family service agencies? What are the implications for other fields of practice? These and other issues are discussed, along with a useful formula for studying practice principles. To illustrate this formula, agency-based demonstration programs are described. (Author)

Research shows that lay counselors function as well or better than professionals in helping youth, a great percentage of whom go to self-help centers rather than formal clinics. The authors urge professional counselors to offer their help to counterinstitutions and cooperate with lay counselors on an equality basis. (SE)