Book excerpt: As the only text of its kind on the market, Principles of Human Services is an overview designed to help the human services workers of tomorrow explore the rewards and responsibilities of potential careers in a variety of human services. Coverage includes a comprehensive introduction to five human services pathways along with the rewards, demands, and trends associated with the various careers. The pathways include consumer services, personal care services, family and community services, counseling and mental health services, and early childhood development and services. Additionally, human services-related careers in food and nutrition, clothing, and housing and interior design are included. Throughout this text, students will examine all aspects of best practices vital to human services professions. They will develop an understanding of the aptitudes, attitudes, and skills; education and training; and specialized knowledge needed to succeed in a wide variety of human services careers. Likewise, students will also discover which careers are expected to experience growth in the future. By studying this text, workers of tomorrow will delve deeper into the world of the human services profession. All chapters include the following distinct features with built-in opportunities for discussion, higher-order thinking, and collaborative learning: Career Spotlight features offer students a closer look at human services careers from the perspective of professionals in the field. Pathway to Success activities provide hands-on opportunities for students to build skills and learn best practices they can apply now in their everyday lives and in their future careers. Case Studies engage students with real-life scenarios and encourage them to dig deeper through follow-up questions for class discussion. Principles of Human Services is a contemporary approach to concepts important for success in today's human services workplace. As students prepare for college and a career in one of many human services, the knowledge and skills they gain from this text will help jump-start their future careers.