A theoretical framework that incorporates emotional responses and emotion regulation into achievement goal theory is proposed as an alternative view to understanding the inconsistent pattern of findings linking achievement goal orientations to academic outcomes. In this critical review and synthesis, the relation of achievement goal orientations…

Hypothesizes that children may misunderstand the task required by Piaget's test and that researchers may therefore underestimate the children's cognitive capacities. Tests the hypothesis by dividing 48 children of both sexes into two groups, those taking the standard tests and those taking a test restructured to limit ambiguity. (BE)

Interviews with adolescents revealed that they have a complex "divided metaphysics" of subjectivity, based on a dualistic view of reality versus appearance. Certain conceptual methodological issues surrounding research into self identity are discussed. (Author/DB)

Describes an ethological approach to the study of intelligence and results of observational research of problem-solving behavior in everyday situations. Nine toddlers and preschoolers were observed. Reactions to situations blocking ongoing behavior were recorded. "Blocks" included situations where the child wanted something that was…

Results of four studies to improve problem solving among the elderly indicated that it is easier to change performance through direct training on problem-solving skills than through manipulating peripheral, noncognitive factors such as motivation, practice, self confidence, and time to plan. (Author/DB)

Outlines Piaget's late ideas on categories and morphisms and the impact of these ideas on the comprehension of the inclusion relationship and the solution of arithmetic problems. Reports a study in which fourth through sixth graders were given arithmetic problems involving two known quantities associated with changes rather than states. Identified…

Deals with some of the confusions that have arisen due to inaccurate translation and misunderstanding of Vygotsky's general theoretical framework. Also discusses how social interaction at the level of interpsychological functioning can lead to independent problem solving at the intrapsychological level. (Author/MP)

Studies the effects of perceptual salience on performance in problems requiring the coordination of information. Subjects were groups of children, younger adults, and older adults. For each of the age groups, those problems containing the most salient information were solved faster and more accurately than problems containing the least salient…

Investigated the performance of a large, representative sample of older adults on Piagetian matrix and formal operations tasks and on an everyday problem solving scale. Studied the relation between performances on these tasks and the relative importance of age, sex, income, education and perceived health on performance level. (Author/SS)

Five symposium papers evaluate the usefulness of ideas associated with the life-span view for enriching, highlighting, or expanding issues, theory, and research pertinent to change processes during infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, and for intervention programs during these periods. (Author/MP)

Investigates the effect of various strategy-modeling techniques on the performance of both young children and elderly adults on the 20 Question Task. (Author/MP)

Describes four kinds of pretend play inhibition observed in children from three to nine years of age. Proposes hypotheses regarding potential causes and developmental sequelae of pretend play difficulties, in both cognitive and socioaffective realms. Discusses the implications of children's pretend play inhibition for examining relationships…