A report of a unique project in child care describes how strengthening the bonds of familial relationships results in improved parental functioning

A comparison of social work practice in rural areas of the United States and Australia reflects similar characteristics. Findings add support to the assertion that there are particular qualities to practice in the rural context that are embedded in the subtleties of shaping social work roles to fit into rural culture.

Although literature has identified cultural values, environmental factors, and specific problems unique to social work practice in rural and small communities, research efforts focused on identification of the differences between rural and urban practice have found little variation. This article presents a new dimension. The findings from a survey of rural practitioners provide a closer look at practice within the rural context. Findings confirm several characteristics found in the literature: direct and indirect practice with multiple client systems, and extensive interface with community based systems of self help groups and natural helpers. The impact of two factors, the influence of rural cultural norms and values and lack of resources, appears to suggest avenues for further study in order to uncover the unique qualities of rural practice. Implications are drawn for social work education.

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