Description
Book SynopsisThe efforts of social activists and mental health professionals to institute population-level social change, such as reducing poverty, building better schools, and establishing more effective substance abuse programs, often fail. They tend to focus on individuals and not real-life community conditions; they fail to take into account stakeholders'' efforts to maintain the status quo; and they do not develop concrete strategies to build coalitions to alter policies. These unsuccessful attempts at change can leave citizens, community groups, and healthcare professionals feeling dispirited and overwhelmed.Principles of Social Change is written for those who are impassioned and driven by social justice issues in their communities and seek practical solutions. Leonard A. Jason, a leading community psychologist, demonstrates how social change can be accomplished and fostered by observing five key principles: (1) determine the nature of the change desired, (2) identify who holds the power, (3)
Trade ReviewThe arguments that he makes are not only profound but reflect the importance of the potential of the contributions of a community-based psychology. * The Australian Community Psychologist, 1 June 2013 *
This book will prove especially useful for academics who long to effect social change beyond publications. * Journal of Groups in Addiction & Recovery, June 2013 *
It is a wonderful and refreshing addition to the community psychology literature, and indeed to the broader social change literature... Principles of Social Change is more than an excellent text on social change; it allows us into the thinking and world of Len Jason. The reader can't help but be moved by the author's contributions. Len's passion and doggedness are remarkable, as is his focus and commitment. * Global Journal of Community Psycholoy Practice, June 2013 *
Table of ContentsForeword by William L. White ; Preface ; Acknowledgments ; Chapter 1. Changing the Rules of the Game ; Chapter 2. Challenging the Status Quo ; Chapter 3. Navigating the Maze ; Chapter 4. Creating Communities to Foster Success ; Chapter 5. Means to an End ; Chapter 6. The Root of the Issue ; References ; About the Author ; Index
