"Opening with an instructive survey of the roots and development of group social work - from the first YMCA to the establishment of the NASW - Northern and Kurland contribute to the integration of theory and research that forms the basis of group social work practice. Using an ecosystem approach, they set forth a generic framework for practice with diverse groups, establishing a common core of values, knowledge, purposes, and interventions that can be applied to different populations and situations. With clear step-by-step guidance, this book covers the major issues as well as the ethical challenges that working with groups entails. " "This fully revised and updated edition includes seven new chapters that reflect the most recent developments in group practice. "--BOOK JACKET.