Teens Who Hurt: Clinical Interventions to Break the Cycle of Adolescent Violence

by Kenneth V. Hardy, Tracey A. Laszloffy

Offering a fresh perspective on treatment, this book presents an overarching framework and many specific strategies for working with violent youth and their families. The authors shed light on the complex interplay of individual, family, community, and societal forces that lead some adolescents to hurt others or themselves. Effective ways to address each of these factors in clinical and school settings are discussed and illustrated with evocative case material. The book provides essential guidance on connecting with aggressive teens and their parents and managing difficult situations that are likely to arise. The strengths-based interventions presented are applicable to a broad range of high-risk behaviors, from bullying and assault to substance abuse, self-mutilation, and suicidality.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Social Work

280 pages, Paperback

First published March 17, 2005

Reviews

[Erin Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really strong clinical book. Most books about trauma are either theory-heavy or solution-heavy but this one does a great job of balancing the two. It’s very well organized and the individual examples used throughout support the theoretical ideas well.

[faith adams-michaels · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book presented an important theory on how to address and prevent adolescent violence. Based in empathy and validation, this theory has the potential to truly influence change in adolescent lives instead of continuing the cycle. My criticism of this book is more about the format than the content. The book is very repetitive, as if it's trying to convince me of something I am already in agreement with. Of course if you disagree with the theory, maybe the writing would be more relevant. I think they should have spent more time giving specific examples and break downs of their method instead of pontificating about the state of the world. The introduction was great to set the stage, but it would have been more helpful to me to learn HOW to address the impact of intergenerational racism, not WHY it needs to be addressed.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great guide to working therapeutically with young people, especially young people of color. Hardy addresses the rage inherent in living with an oppressed identity, and the physical violence that often accompanies structural violence. He offers sound advice for finding the good in young people labeled 'bad', as well as concrete strategies for helping young people access and process their unacknowledged losses, and find productive and healthy outcomes. Highly recommended for therapists, teachers, or adults involved in at-risk youth in any way.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved reading a book that mirrors things I know and do in my clinical work

[L · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good!

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this has changed the way I think and definitely impacted the way I will live my life and the path I choose to take in the future.