Introduction to the Special Section: Disadvantaged Children and Families

Abstract

Provides an overview of some of the outstanding issues confronting psychologists and other health service providers involved in the treatment of disadvantaged children and families. The diverse ways in which clinical child psychology can contribute to enhanced care for underserved families are briefly outlined and exemplified by reference to articles included in this section. A call is issued for an intensified effort by clinical child psychologists to ensure that services to such children and families constitute a priority for future research, advocacy, and service system change efforts.