This text brings together the research, theories, and practices around youth development and utilizes the experiences and approaches tested by practitioners. A brilliant blending of theory and practice comes to life in this textbook. The authors' intention is to provide an introductory overview for the professional practice of youth work in the United States. They have crafted a document that provides basic information regarding the status of youth and youth work in America today. Among the topics covered in this book are those dealing with adolescence as a life stage, historical perspectives, key terms and definitions of youth work and youth development, approaches and orientations to youth work, program and leadership strategies, ethics, multiculturalism, policy formulation, professional career development, and challenges and issues. Following a foreword by Kala Stroup, the book consists of the following chapters: (1) Youth Today; (2) Adolescence; (3) A Historical Perspective; (4) The Language of Youth Work and Youth Development; (5) Approaches to Youth Work; (6) Programming with Youth; (7) Leadership; (8) Mentoring Youth; (9) Multiculturalism; (10) Ethics; (11) Formulating Youth Policy; (12) Professional Development; and (13) Challenges and Issues. Appended are: (1) Pioneers in Youth Service; (2) Chronological History of Youth Services; and (3) Professional Organizations. An index concludes the book.