Psychoeducation is an orientation to the education and treatment of kids with emotional and behavioral problems that places heavy emphasis upon the adult-child relationship.  The psychoeducator sees most "problem behavior" as a reflection of the child's inability to deal with situations maturely and productively, not as deliberate.

Within the context of a therapeutic relationship, psychoeducation . . .

1.  Focuses on the unique needs of the troubled child;
2.  Helps the child recognize and understand how his or her needs drive behavior; and, 
3.  Supports development of new and more productive ways of working and living with others.

Psychoeducation involves many therapeutic elements but is not "psychotherapy."  Although psychoeducation is concerned with the child's developmental status, mostly the psychoeducator is interested in helping the child find better ways to cope with immediate problems. Psychoeducation recognizes that the student must develop sufficient self-understanding to relate well with others!

Adults who have a psychoeducational orientation may be found in schools, agencies for troubled kids, and in the juvenile justice system.  There are many "psychoeducators" who do not know what the word means, or that it might apply to them! 

Psychoeducators do not see the world through rose-colored glasses, but are reality-based.  Not all children benefit from a psychoeducational approach.  For example, a small number of kids act out wantonly and maliciously, and are seemingly "immune" from a psychoeducational orientation.  Other kids lack the intellectual or verbal skills to gain much through psychoeducational strategies.  Still, the majority of kids with problems are simply trying to cope -- however poorly -- with their life situations, and may flourish when a caring adult shows real interest in them.