Examination and critical evaluation of selected evidence based methods of intervention; research on their effectiveness; and application to specific problems of children, adolescents and their families that come to the attention of social workers and other helping professionals is the focus of this course. Attention is given to prevention and remediation. The goals of this course are: (1) foster understanding of the global status of children and adolescent; (2) to assist students in developing an understanding of available evidence based strategies for effective interventions with children, adolescents, and their families; (3) to assist students in developing knowledge of appropriate prevention and intervention strategies for application in the context of social work values and ethics; and (4) to provide a safe classroom environment for students to practice their own skills in working with children, adolescents and caregivers. Special emphasis will focus on consideration of differential assessment and intervention skills that incorporate an understanding and appreciation of the diverse experiences (culture, race, ethnicity, gender, age, religious/spiritual, socio-economic class, physical and mental disability, family configuration, family dynamics, and consequences of social and economic injustice, oppression and discrimination), needs, and beliefs of the children and families served. Interventions will be considered in light of international, national, and local social policies and programs and their effect on children, adolescents, and families.