ABSTRACT
The success of any complex organization depends heavily on the way it is structured and managed. In this chapter, the authors shall note how the task of socializing children became embodied in formal organizations. During the same period, Cooley noted that the school was second only to the family in socializing children because it offered the only other significant primary group relationship. Many troubled youngsters respond to the tensions of the dysfunctional organization by flight rather than fight; absenteeism, truancy from schools or institutions, and dropping out are all examples of this reaction. The team model provides a framework for resolving dysfunctional interdisciplinary conflict and tension. There has been a surge of interest in work with parents, particularly since national policies have mandated their inclusion in the educational and treatment process. Traditionally, residential group care programs have served as family substitutes rather than as a family support system.
