This unique volume demonstrates the effectiveness of applying an evidence-based practice process to the solution of selected social problems. It focuses on social work interventions addressing family, community, and societal factors. Research indicates that reinforcement for positive behavior at the group, organizational, and community levels, as opposed to interventions focusing on the individual, are more likely to result in meaningful improvement in well-being. Chapters address issues such as child maltreatment, educationally disadvantaged children, violence in schools, adolescent sexuality, substance abuse, crime, urban decline and homelessness, unemployment, marital conflict, and chronic medical problems.

Empirically Based Interventions Targeting Social Problems is a relevant resource for practitioners and counseling professionals whose work involves interventions with children and families as well as communities. It also is a useful text for graduate students in social work as well as students preparing for other helping professions including psychology, sociology, marital and family counseling, and child development.