The agencies requiring the longest amount of time to respond generally provided better quality responses. The size of the agency seemed unrelated to either the speed or the quality of response. Response quality was generally inadequate with less than 50 percent of the responding states adequately answering the parent's question. (Author)

Reviewing recent British research and policy concerning preschoolers, the author criticizes the distinction made between "care" and "education." He advocates coordination of local services for children under five. (SJL)

Describes the situation of Iu Mien southeast Asian refugees who have settled in the San Francisco Bay area. Discusses economic and cultural factors related to their adjustment, and stresses the need for social service workers to become more familiar with southeast Asian culture. (GC)

A survey of six decades of literature dealing with the collaboration of social workers and clients identifies the emerging themes and uses these themes as the basis for a practice model. (Author/DB)

Discusses problems that social scientists face when evaluating social programs, including cost, methodological concerns, and the development and application of new analytical techniques. (GC)

Presents a procedure whereby existing data can be utilized in placing needs of the elderly in priority ranking. A basic technique developed by HEW was employed. Various strengths and weaknesses are noted. Suggestions are made for utilization of the method presented by social service planning agencies. (Author)

A study of urban frail elderly revealed an association between higher rates of social interaction and more reliance on informal aid but less reliance on formal agencies. It may well be that informal social ties block proper access to useful services rather than lead to more humane and cheaper alternatives. (Author)

Provides a catalogue of federal programs and gives the key sources of federal funds for child development, social services, nutrition, education, health, community development, etc. (MP)

Reports on findings from a study of the status offender, and raises issues pertaining to the legitimacy of existing laws as expressions of public policy. (CM)

A review of the kinds of jobs available in services developed to help the homebound elderly: Home health care, homemaker-home health aide, chore service, home repair and maintenance, home-delivered meals, telephone reassurance, and friendly visiting. (JT)

The social service and health care occupation of homemaker-home health aide is described including job information, employment outlook, and benefits and drawbacks. (JT)

The president of the American Association on Mental Retardation examines progress in four areas of mental retardation, for individuals with mental retardation, the nation, the Association, and all individuals. The four areas are choice, advocacy, supports, and equity. (DB)

This volume reflects the impact of postmodern critical thinking on models of human service practice. It demonstrates the values of practice informed by critical theory but does not present adequate empirical support for its effectiveness and Stringer's model is not illustrated through a case study. (SLD)

The Salvation Army Emergency Lodge in Chicago, Illinois, provides a playschool and home visitation program for homeless children and families who have recently found homes. The lodge temporarily houses families, and the playschool gives children a protective, supportive environment during their stay. (SKC)

Discusses child-care legislative reforms in Northern Ireland during economic and political uncertainty and organizational upheaval in the delivery of services to children and families. Explores the impact of new legislation and the implications of the contract culture, and considers ways in which future child-care provision can create…