This opinion piece considers the current predominance of assessment tools and strategies in working with people at risk of suicide, and questions their efficacy and how they are privileged in day to day mental health practice. While such tools and an evidence-based "scientific" approach to assessment clearly has its place, the author…

This paper is based on two interrelated themes concerning the problems arising from counseling at-risk youth in the push for world-class education and the unique cultural, social, and political conditions of each country and community. The first theme concerns guidelines for building relationships with at-risk youth. The critical assessment of…

Sees historical antecedents of primary prevention in methods of public health, counseling, and psychotherapy. Defines primary prevention as being proactive and aimed predominantly at high-risk groups not yet affected by condition to be prevented. Sees success measured in decline in incidence of condition that is compared with controls. Asserts…

Educational and treatment programs for troubled youth face formidable barriers in building pro-social group climates. When a youth is loyal to deviant peers, positive adult bonds are obstructed. Fritz Redl once observed that therapeutic efforts with such a youth is akin to having a "gang under the couch." Effective ecological interventions employ…

As the Navajo nation undergoes rapid assimilation and modernization, counseling needs of the Navajo children have changed in ways similar to counseling needs in developing or "Eastern Block" nations. An adolescent sub-culture, full of at-risk behaviors, is epidemic worldwide. The paper states that a multicultural perspective can provide…

Discusses the development of public schools as centers for social and health services. Identifies the at-risk population and describes a variety of intervention programs. Envisions a comprehensive, centralized scheme at the city or county level to serve the needs of disadvantaged students and their families. (DM)

Argues that teachers seeking to identify what constitutes a crisis for children must consider the child's response to and feelings about the experience, not just the event itself. Reviews common physical, psychological, and social symptoms of crisis. Discusses ways to help children in crisis while maintaining appropriate boundaries. (PAA)

Presents information about suicide among adolescents. Profiles the suicidal person and reviews general distress signals and events precipitating suicide. Suggests responses to potential or actual suicides, including intervention, prevention, and ministry strategies. Provides recommendations for educators and clarifies common myths about suicide.…

In a sample of students (n=93), preference for country and western music was not associated with depression or suicidal preoccupation as has been suggested by Stack and Gundlach. However, preference for heavy metal music was associated with prior suicidal ideation. Stronger associations were found between music preferences and measures of…