Youth at Risk: A Prevention Resource for Counselors, Teachers and Parents

In the latest edition of this best-selling text, David Capuzzi and Douglas Gross, along with 24 experts in the field provide a prevention–intervention paradigm to address contemporary issues facing today’s youth. Written from a systemic perspective, this book offers guidance in helping teens who are struggling with the complex challenges that can be brought on by peers, family members, and difficult social environments.

Part 1 presents information on at-risk population identification, causal factors of problematic behaviors, and promotion of resiliency in youth. Part 2 examines the development of at-risk behaviors relating to dysfunctional family dynamics, low self-esteem, depression, mood disorders, and stress and trauma. Part 3 explores the behaviors most often identified as placing youth at risk, such as eating disorders, suicidal preoccupation, teen sexuality, gang membership, school violence, substance abuse, homelessness, school dropout, and bullying, as well as the unique strengths of and stressors faced by multiracial and LGBTQ youth. Case studies illustrate prevention efforts from individual, family, school, and community perspectives, and text sidebars create greater reader self-awareness and enhance the understanding of the concepts, skills, and applications of the chapter material.

A complimentary test manual and PowerPoint slides for instructors’ use are available by written request to ACA.