Research findings show that social work has achieved positive results in focused, intensive work in fields such as child abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, and mental disorders. Achievements have occurred in motivating clients to accept responsibility for their injurious behaviors. The research also recommends a focus on high-risk offenders. Early intervention works well. Among the studies reviewed there are a number that feature made-to-order, community- based projects designed to deal with specific problems. Features associated with success apparently are a high level of strategic planning and organization and the involvement of all parties likely to affect the course of social problems, for example, police, teachers, employers, youth workers, and parents. Research also suggests that behavioral and cognitive-behavioral approaches are more effective in comparative terms than any other method. This would require that probation officers be trained to practice these methods of interacting with clients. 59 references