This volume focuses on the traditionally neglected study of the relationship between state and local governments. The essays in this book contend that state-local relations are best viewed not through the hierarchical unitary model in which states impose their will on constitutionally subordinate localities but as partners in a system of government whereby the balance of power between state and local governments is determined by the people. As a whole, these essays lead to two generalizations. First, economic development policy best captures the image of the state-local partnership. Localities recruit business.
States assist communities through education and training programs.
Second, education, when viewed as economic development policy, enables proponents of educational equality to tap the superior tax base of states, but the redistributive issue of health and welfare policy is relegated to the financially constricted localities. This collection of ten essays fills a substantial need in the literature and is recommended as a reader for state and local government courses. American Psychological Association. The first chapter provides a nice review of the changes encountered by the American family during the 20th Century, including the impact of urbanization, poverty, and the failure of U.S. policy to provide adequate support to children. The second describes a series of risk factors common to infancy and childhood and some avenues for preventive intervention.