Four areas of procrastination discussed in this article are: (1) the perfection trap; (2) the need to avoid avoidance; (3) the completion trap; and (4) the failure to prioritize. Included are an explanation of each area, examples of reasons people put off tasks, and methods of coping with procrastination. (EM)

The digest addresses issues related to preschool gifted and talented children. Such a child is defined as one who functions significantly above average age level in language development, thinking skills, creative thinking skills, physical adaptability, social skills, and/or leadership. Early identification is viewed as important, and the use of…

The use of mild aversives to control self-injurious and stereotypic behaviors of severely emotionally disturbed children is considered. Research is reviewed on the ethics and effectiveness of aversive stimuli. Mild aversives include a form of nonseclusionary timeout known as facial screening, the administration of certain irritating substances…

The authors discuss the nature, use, and application of behavioral rating scales for students with behavior disorders. An annotated list of eight behavioral rating scales is included. (CL)

The author contends that falling barometric pressure hampers the flow of blood throughout the nervous system, thus encouraging maladaptive behavior in some neurologically impaired children. Among guidelines offered are to create a calm environment and to check the barometer frequently during the day. (CL)

Although the effect of perfectionism on academic performance has received increasing attention in recent years, little has been written about the ways it affects career development. Combined with increasing pressures to succeed at the workplace, perfectionism may adversely affect individuals sense of accomplishment and their actual achievements.…

Identifies specific behavioral characteristics of both aggressive and passive-aggressive students, delineates a four-step process that most aggressive students go through as they lose control of their emotions, and describes intervention strategies that teachers can use to deal with each step of the breakdown of control. (FL)

Children's specialized speech codes and nonverbal behaviors are examined in the context of playground games. (JD)

The regular classroom teacher's role in the identification of learning-disabled children is important but often difficult. Identification is facilitated, however, by recognition of a pattern of symptoms rather than one single sign. (Author/GC)

In this digest the problem of underachievement among gifted students is examined. Gifted underachievers manifest three behavior patterns in the school setting: non-communication and withdrawal, passive compliance, and aggressive/disruptive behavior. Gifted underachievers have been identified in greater numbers recently. Some of the causes of…

The purpose of this article is to share with teachers selected information from the literature of motor learning which may stimulate thinking and generate interest in research on the questions pertinent to the problem of teaching game skills. (JD)

Describes a Saturday School model designed to modify student behavior by subjecting students to experiences that will build a positive self-concept. Students assume full responsiblility for their behavior and receive counseling and a contact or support person to assist them in building positive behavior patterns. (MLH)

When culturally different children are referred for suspected emotional/behavioral disorders, their native cultural customs and beliefs must be considered. Examples of withdrawn, defensive, disorganized, and aggressive behaviors are cited. (CL)

The article describes five dimensions of handicapped children's behavior likely to be affected by environments: engagement, independence, aggression, social interaction, and happiness. Research and theory documenting the relationship between environments and behavior are reviewed and guidelines for matching changes in preschool environments to…

The article examines problems which teachers (particularly in preschool programs) have encountered in using behavioral checklists as a basis for curriculum planning. (SBH)