For more than 150 years empowering practices have been used by social workersin their work with families but the techniques of today differ significantlyfrom th... » 

For more than 150 years empowering practices have been used by social workersin their work with families but the techniques of today differ significantlyfrom those of the pioneers or even from those of a few years ago. Todayspractitioners recognize that empowering others is impossible social workerscan however assist others as they empower themselves. This book integratestimehonored approaches with todays more modest goals mindful of whatempowerment can and cannot do. Synthesizing several theoretical supportsmdashthe strengths perspective system theory theories of family wellbeingand theories of coping mdashthe author responds to the question What works?with todays families in need. Practice illustrations are provided throughoutto bring concepts to life and more important to present families describingtheir own experiences with achieving empowerment. «