Geographical, economic, social and cultural barriers to accessing services in rural areas are widely reported. Less widely discussed are dilemmas posed by individual and community reluctance to address sensitive health issues. This article, focusing on the highly sensitive area of mental health, and employing a participatory action approach,…

This model starts with the assumption that a drinking problem is a family problem. Alcoholism is seen as a complex, progressive illness dangerous not only to the individual drinker but also to his family, friends, and society as a whole. Early intervention is seen as important in dealing with the problem. Early warning signs and symptoms are set…

Demonstrates how concepts derived from General Systems Theory can be used to understand and treat families living in impoverished, isolated rural communities in the South. Suggests interventions frequently need to be directed at the community system as a whole if community rules are to be modified for second-order change. (Author)