Describes reasons that adoptees search for their biological parents. Reasons are categorized into search as adventure and search as therapy. The latter is further divided into medical and psychological models. (RJC)

Relates the special problems of the homosexual adolescent, focusing specifically on negative social bias and its effect on the adolescent's psychological development and identity formation. (Author/CM)

The impact of closed and open adoption for the older adopted child and the adoptive and biological parents is examined in order to provide knowledge that may be useful in choosing the type of adoptive placement that best meets the needs of particular children and families. (Author/RH)

Notes that individual therapy is often assumed to be the desired intervention for children in alternate care who are having adjustment problems. Argues that group work should be considered as a possible treatment of choice, as it allows the child to develop his or her own support network. Describes such a group and its successful outcome. (HTH)

Semi-open, open, and other alternatives to the confidentiality of traditional adoption procedures are discussed by focusing on the needs of adoptive and birth parents. Positive outcomes of alternative approaches to adoption for all members of the adoption triangle are indicated. (Author/RH)

Relates the theory of grief and its resolution to foster parents' experiences of separation and loss, discusses obstacles to healthy grief resolution, and suggests how child welfare agencies and foster parents themselves can help foster parents resolve grief feelings. (Author/DB)

Describes cases of adults whose early developmental years were marked by constant threat of parental abuse and who manifest, as adults, an inability to tolerate aggression or to develop close relationships. Uses Mahler's separation-individuation process framework to provide an understanding of the early foundations of these adults' problems. (SS)

Examines from legal and psychological perspectives counseling services that are provided to minors without parental knowledge or consent. Explores current mental health agency policies and practices, and makes recommendations regarding the counseling needs and rights of minors. (SKC)

Explores professionals' practice of heightening the awareness of child abuse victims as either a goal or a by-product of the investigation-treatment process. Suggests guidelines indicating when it may be advisable to heighten awareness during treatment and when it should be avoided. (HOD)

Discusses homosexuality, homosexual adolescents in out-of-home care settings, and factors that can help make placement in residential facilities a more positive experience for homosexual adolescents. (HTH)