Postulates new way of describing identity development process under oppression using optimal theory. From this optimal worldview, oppression is perceived as self-alienating and yielding a fragmented sense of self, based upon devaluation by self and others. Describes optimal theory as providing new inclusive model of identity development. Describes…

Focuses on the meaning of culture and technology for counseling and developmental services. Suggests that the profession has failed to respond to cultural realities, and a full-scale review of professional systems is needed. (JAC)

Contends that identity is constituted differently depending on the culture of origin. Against backdrop of U.S. individualism, explores cultural relativity of identity and pseudospeciation (false sense of cultural specialness). Notes that this literature grounds prejudice in evolution itself and provides reasons for movement beyond individualism to…

Presents overview of Erich Fromm's theory of human development with special emphasis on the origin of basic human needs, reciprocal interaction between these needs, and sociocultural structures that mold social character. Describes different types of social character in terms of socioeconomic structures that produce them. Describes features of…

Presents a personal development model for Black elementary school children resulting from a needs survey consisting of interviews with counselors, teachers, administrators, and children. Model described includes activities for building self-confidence, career development, building social and work relationships, solving problems, study skills, and…

Discusses the theories of the Chautauqua movement concerning lifelong learning. Presents its religious basis, the theory of self-culture, access to knowledge, why adulthood is a unique time for learning, and how Chautauqua influenced contemporary thought and social movements. (CT)

This paper examines the characteristics of high school and college as life stages of young people in Japan and the United States and suggests some of the ways in which these experiences mesh with the demands of the occupational structure. The paper first contrasts the differences in the Japanese and American student experience during their high…