Respected family policy expert Shirley Zimmerman offers the only single-authored core textbook to provide a comprehensive and coherent introduction to family policy. The application of the frameworks to real life issues in family policy provides the opportunity for students to learn to think conceptually about family policy in relation to family problems. She clearly and cogently guides students through the foundations, policy frameworks, and implications of policy decisions for family well-being, ending with a carefully considered set of conclusions and implications for policy practice.

Now in its sixth edition, Becoming an Effective Policy Advocate continues to embrace the policy-practice framework that made it a success while including completely updated coverage of important recent developments in the field. This groundbreaking text goes beyond the traditional foundational approach to policy and helps students develop the skills they need to become advocates for social change. Students are taught the ins and outs of conducting policy-practice so that they will be prepared to implement policy reform during their own careers.

According to data released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), children and youth participating in SAMHSA community-based programs who are involved in the juvenile justice and child welfare systems demonstrate improved outcomes after receiving trauma-informed services. This includes reduced behavioral and emotional problems, reduced trauma symptoms, reduced substance use problems, improved functioning in school and in the community, and improved ability to build relationships.