There are four different questions. Each response should have a reference.
• Role of Support Groups for Addictions
For this discussion, describe key differences between formal group therapy in a treatment setting and support groups found in the community (such as Alcoholics Anonymous). What client characteristics or preferences are appropriate to consider before making referrals to support groups in the community? Provide an example of a client objection that may better addressed by an alternative to traditional twelve-step support groups and present a rationale for a support group that may be a better fit.
• Strategies for Group Leaders
Group therapy in any setting may include a diverse group of clients. This can be even more common in groups focused on addictions, given the breadth of community members who may be impacted. Describe key strategies that a group leader would be wise to consider in leading an addictions group where members may initially appear to have little in common aside from their addiction.
• Educational Achievement Gaps
While considering the resources you have read about the educational achievement gap, use three conclusions from the research that inform a potential career counselor about possible causes for the educational achievement gap. Whether you are working with children directly or not, articulate how this information is vital for career counselors to understand and address as it relates to career and educational planning, placement, and even evaluation. Finally, explain career development as an integral subset of human development.
For example, you might say, "Recent research has shown that there are many potential reasons for the disparity between racial groups. A review by Farkas (2003) has actually shown that the difference has to do with social background, or economic reasons, rather than race, per se." and so on.
• Career Counseling Across the Lifespan
From the framework of your readings and articles, synthesize your understanding and then justify career counseling across the lifespan. State what really struck you after reading the article, and identify the influence that career counseling can have when working with children, adolescents, and adults. How does the developmental lifespan perspective influence career and educational planning, placement, and evaluation? How did Frank Parsons influence the world of career counseling?