Examines client violence and illustrates the ways in which it is manifested, the risk factors for violent behavior, and the ways in which incidents psychologically and physically affect clinicians. Recommends strategies and policies that social workers and agencies can implement to protect frontline workers from violence without compromising…

Examines widespread belief that blacks, and particularly young black inner-city males, are far more prone to violence than are whites. Considers family problems and Aid to Families with Dependent Children; racial stereotypes of welfare recipients; the underclass; victims of crime; and drug abuse. Concludes that, despite its weak foundation, myth…

Social work that is involved with community relations for the purpose of addressing "hate violence" acts directed at minorities is an important field of practice. Four types of groups, those composed of community members, victims, perpetrators, and organizational representatives, are described, and the skills needed for effective work with each…

Examines the tendency of men to engage in domestic violence and sexual exploitation and presents male sex-role acquisition as a process of psychosocial violence against young boys, which creates a sense of shame, powerlessness, self-alienation, isolation from others, and retaliatory rage and inhibits capacities for intimacy and mutuality.…

Uses feminist perspective and problem of wife abuse to illustrate how ideology affects social policy and direct practice models. Warns that society and social work seek to address problem by developing programs to treat victims rather than abusers. Suggests that social work recommit itself to model that focuses on person-in-environment to avoid…

Presents a conceptual model of violence for social work that addresses the diverse manifestations of violence, its multilevel nature, and its structural foundation. Examples related to poverty and drug abuse demonstrate the model's usefulness for social work education and practice. (JPS)

Traces changes in social workers' perspectives on the problem of wife abuse. Divides the changes into three time periods: discovering the problem (1976-79); consolidating the perspectives (1980-82); and transforming the problem of wife abuse (1983-84). Concludes increased focus on individual and couple treatment has deflected attention away from…

Reviews and interprets some recent literature on substance abuse problems and treatments among women. Major risk factors include childhood sexual or physical abuse, domestic violence, and a spouse or partner who abuses substances. Discusses the enormous problems of access to treatment for women with minor children. (JPS)

Most gang membership research studies males; few examine the etiology of female gang membership. Presents themes of female gang membership gathered from interviews with 15 young women. Examines demographic material, family structure, initiation rites, and criminal behaviors. Explores implications for social work practice and research. (FC)