Journal


	Volume 1 / #1: What Works [Who Works] (48 pages) A detailed and comprehensive summary of the evidence-based research findings on the effectiveness of therapeutic programming (with an emphasis on programs for youth in conflict with the law). The article promotes a "common factors" approach to program improvement while providing a critical evaluation of several major research projects (specifically, the work of Mark Lipsey and associates, the work of Andrews & Bonta, the Ontario government's "Best Practice" Literature Review (Phase 2), and the recent MST clinical trials in Ontario. The article also discusses many issues related to the role of Child & Youth Counsellors within therapeutic programming. Volume 1 / #2: The Sun, the Earth, and the Exact Location of the Professional Soul (4 pages) Explores the difference between "communication" and "collaboration" and the impact these have on professional performance. The stages of collaboration are presented in the context of their contribution to building a professional work community. Volume 2 / #1: If We Want To Be Taken Seriously ... (4 pages) Outlines the nature of "professionalism" and the difference between Job Accountability and Professional Accountability in Child & Youth Counselling. Also discussed is the growing need for more "democratic" work environments as work values change in response to evolving economic and demographic conditions. Volume 2 / #2: Prisms, Pink Waistcoats, Praise & Punishment (16 pages) Ever wonder what the hidden problem with programming tools such as "level systems", "points", "token economies", and other "behaviourally-based" compliance/reward interventions might be? This article discusses the difference between "intrinsic" and "extrinsic" motivation and how these concepts can be used to improve our effectiveness as Child & Youth Counsellors. It is a critical examination of the deficiencies of a behavioural approach to youth programming - an approach that systematically fails to help our clients internalize and generalize positive change in their lives. Volume 2 / #3: Crying Shame (18 pages) Summarizes an exciting new area of research in the field of "moral emotions" (e.g., shame, guilt, and self-esteem) and the impact these have on criminal behaviour. The article discusses the work of psychologist June Tangney and its implications for therapeutic programming. Also discussed is a general theory of personal change, which is used as a framework for presenting Tangney's research. Volume 3 / #1: Control & Compliance: Do You Believe In Magic? (6 pages) A discussion of two models of child discipline: Thomas Phelan's 1-2-3 Magic© and Ross Greene's Collaborative Problem Solving - including the concepts and values that underpin them and the implications they have for general therapeutic objectives. Volume 3 / #2: Delinquency Training (8 pages) Some recent research has shown that group programming for delinquent youths actually causes therapeutic harm - for example, it increases the likelihood that participants will: commit more delinquencies, increase their substance abuse, indulge in more acts of violence, and have a higher incidence of adult maladjustments. Is the handwriting on the wall for group programming with this population? The article discusses: (a) the nature of group intervention; (b) a particular dynamic within criminal subcultures called "deviancy training"; and (3) the relationship that this research has with general research on the effectiveness of therapeutic programming. Volume 4 / #1: The Surly Years: Brain Development in Adolescence (and Before) (17 pages) A critical review of neuroscience research in infant and adolescent development. The article examines its relationship and relevance to our understanding of children's behavior, development, and needs - and to the parenting practices and social policies guiding our care of children. Volume 4 / #2: Best Practice (in Children and Youth Services) (14 pages) A reflection on the limitations of Best Practice in our field - and an attempt to articulate an understanding of professional practice that allows for innovation and local knowledge. Bulletin 1 / (#1 through #4): What Works [Who Works]: A Synopsis (2 pages each) A summary and review of the material presented in What Works [Who Works] - V. 1 / #1.