COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY CONSULTATION AND THE TRANSITION TO INSTITUTIONALOWNERSHIP AND OPERATION OF INTERVENTION

We begin this article with a discussion of how a set of community psyc hology principles can be of assistance to the process of developing sc hool-based programs and to consulting regarding the implementation of such programs. These principles are discussed, with examples brought f rom our experiences in consulting for the implementation of a school-b ased social problem-solving intervention in a school for students with special education (SE) classifications. Particular focus is given to the issue of the consultant's role in promoting ownership and oversigh t for the implementation of the intervention on the part of school per sonnel. The paradox between the consultant serving both an empowering and an expert role is discussed, with suggestions for resolving the pa radox given. Throughout the article, the application of community psyc hology principles are emphasized.