International volunteer service (IVS) has rapidly expanded in the last decade among its volunteer participants and sponsoring agencies. Scholars have diverse opinions on the efficacy and ethics of IVS. Proponents suggest ...

In social work, a commitment to individual and societal values is foundational, professionally-sanctioned and necessary for culturally sensitive, ethical practice. Values are instrumental in the formation of cultural norms, ...

Public school shootings in the United States have reached levels of epidemic concern. Current research related to U.S. school shootings addresses a variety of issues including historical analysis, political influences ...

Social work and Christianity both have a longstanding history of social justice engagement. Congregations and the profession of social work are both navigating unique aspects of the United States’ current divided and ...

Children with externalized behaviors and their parents face significant challenges. Parents find themselves stressed and uncertain how to navigate the parenting demands of children with difficult behaviors. Two significant ...

Approximately half of all mental health concerns will begin by 14 years of age and 75% will develop by 24 years of age. Congregations are often a primary point of contact for individuals seeking support related to a mental ...

The concept of calling as it relates to work was historically relegated to vocations and jobs within the church or ministry sector. More broadly, people have discussed being “called” to follow Christ or their specific ...

Mindfulness is a theory and practice skill that originates from Buddhism. Most who study and use mindfulness do so by drawing from Buddhist precepts, values and practices. This dissertation explored and evaluated a Christian ...

Adoption breakdown often results in devastating effects for the family and child. Children and parents who experience adoption breakdown suffer adverse residual effects of a traumatic experience. Given the dire outcomes ...