Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides some of the more romantic images of life in the suburbs, especially as reflected through children's experiences. It presents various prospects and possibilities for group work intervention, and demonstrates through anecdotal material, the promise which they represent. The book discusses a group work response to alienation and the changing family, and illustrates the plight of immigrant youth in their struggle to adapt to a new homeland. It describes aspects of the black experience in suburbia, providing specific recommendations and cautionary notes for group work intervention. The book develops a portrait of the lonely child which crosses back and forth between suburban and urban landscapes. It also describes a carefully detailed educational/support group model for female adolescents with eating disorders.