Explores the widespread avoidance of the identification and treatment of alcoholism by the social work profession. Examines the underlying causes of this avoidance and suggests guidelines to overcome the organizational and the professional barriers that have kept alcoholics from seeking social work treatment. (Author/JAC)

Alcoholism is a widespread but neglected problem in the lesbian community. The myths and realities of lesbian experience are described and suggested treatment strategies that address the special problems and needs of lesbian alcoholics are given. The literature is reviewed and the need to overcome homophobia among social workers and in agencies is…

Describes study of representative case findings (N=100) in four social work programs which did not have in-house substance abuse treatment for indications whether the social worker had recognized substance abuse as a problem for the client or had made a referral for treatment. Findings suggest many clients were substance abusers, but few were…

SHARP is a hospital-based, self-help program for treating alcoholic veterans, which involves them in assuming major roles in governing the program and in helping one another. Because follow-up support is essential to maintaining sobriety, SHARP created an active social support system in the community. (Author)

Guidelines for casework with the family of the alcoholic indicate the importance of understanding that alcoholism is a treatable disease, of letting the alcoholic suffer the consequences of his drinking, and of demonstrating how self-help groups can be a valuable resource to the alcoholic and his family. (Author)

Addresses common critiques of Alcoholics Anonymous by offering a way of understanding it as a "normative narrative community" where identity transformation takes place through the use of metaphor and storytelling. Suggests alternative meanings of key metaphors, describes areas of program strength and potential barriers for social…

Suggests that in dealing with problem drinkers at the workplace, industrial social workers must consider organizational and group variables that contribute to a "culture of drinking," which fosters and sanctions the use of alcohol. Suggests interventions that promote a "culture of sobriety." (Author)

Surveyed Family Service America member agencies to assess impact of impetus to look to private sector for provision of services. Found that family service agencies experienced tremendous growth in 1980s in both client caseloads and areas of service provision. Family service agency client was likely to be minority person seeking counseling within…

Studied 89 clients in case management program, most of whom were identified as heavy users of acute care and psychiatric emergency rooms. Findings revealed that 50% were adult children of alcoholics and that many had been sexually and physically abused as children or adults. None had been asked about or appropriately treated for these aspects of…