Empowering Settings and Voices for Social Change

"This landmark book brings empowerment alive in the narratives of settings and marginalized populations that push for social change. The renowned community psychologist Julian Rappaport championed empowerment, citizen-grown solutions, and a brilliant skepticism about theory, method, and context. In this volume lovingly prepared by former students, colleagues, and admirers, we are forced to think deeply about constraints against and possibilities for change in diverse domains such as youth settings, juvenile justice, prevention, mental health in an American Indian community, and recovery from mental illness. Critical commentary at every turn enriches the debate. A fitting tribute, an original and creative contribution, and a must read for all concerned with the future of societal services and human development." Rhona S. Weinstein, Professor of the Graduate School, University of California, Berkeley "The chapters in this volume contain the latest word in the concepts of empowerment used as the stimulus for research and community interventions, and narrative used diagnostically, as intervention and for evaluation. It also contains analytic work on these concepts and critiques of their ambiguities and limitations. The authors, former students, colleagues and friends of Julian Rappaport, have put together a volume that shows the range of efforts in community psychology that have been influenced by him. The volume is a fitting tribute to Julian who also contributes an interesting personal intellectual history." Murray Levine, Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus, SUNY at Buffalo "This volume honors the enormous contributions of Julian Rappaport's strength-based social action approach, featuring empowerment, narratives, and the mutual influence process. The contributors of this edited volume provide creative, insightful examples of how Rappaport's energizing concepts have transformed the field of Community Psychology over the past three decades." -- Leonard A. Jason, Director, Center Center for Community Research, DePaul University "Julian Rappaport's writings have been a major force in shaping the field of community psychology. This book provides a vivid description by major figures in community psychology of how Rappaport's ideas about empowerment, the use of narrative, and giving voice to marginalized individuals and groups have impacted social change in diverse settings. Those working in community settings as well as graduate students will find this book invaluable." -- Ronald Roesch, Professor of Psychology, Simon Fraser University "This is an enjoyable, compelling, conceptually coherent, and challenging book. While it is written by community psychologists about a community psychologist, psychologists of all fields concerned with social justice, methods, diversity, and well-being will find stimulating chapters with applicability far beyond community psychology." -- Isaac Prilleltensky, PsycCRITIQUES