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.

''Capuzzi and Gross have constructed an amazing text that highlights key issues confronting youth and emphasizes the need for prevention-oriented, strength-based solutions within a holistic context. The case examples and evidence-based interventions are illuminating, particularly when focusing on diverse youth. This is a necessary text for anyone working with at-risk youth.'' - --Cirecie West Olatunji, PhD Academic Program Director, Counseling University of Cincinnati President, American Counseling Association (2013-2014)

''In this sixth edition, Capuzzi and Gross continue to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to improve the lives of young people. As a longtime developmental researcher and program developer, I would recommend this text to anyone who wants to better understand at-risk behavior and develop the skills necessary to help at-risk youth.'' - --David W. Andrews, PhD Dean, Johns Hopkins University School of Education

''This is a tremendous resource for counselors working in diverse settings with at-risk youth and their families. Rich in information, it details a wide range of practical and innovative interventions that can be readily applied by parents, practitioners, school counselors, and other professionals. I will use it in both my clinical practice and in the classroom.'' - --Thelma Duffey, PhD Chair, Department of Counseling The University of Texas at San Antonio