A case study of a 10-year-old boy with poor performance in language and math investigated whether increasing on task behavior in one subject area will increase on task behavior in another area. Results indicated that increasing on task behavior in one curriculum area does not necessarily generalize to another area. (PHR)

Analyzes defensiveness in communication as caused by an unwillingness to acknowledge and tolerate differences in others, a fear of change in ourselves, and a desire to avoid mental imbalance. It causes a deteriorating cycle between communicators but can be reduced by empathy, treatment of fellow communicators as equals, and genuineness. (JMF)

Results with preschool children were nonsupportive and, in fact, contrary to the general hypothesis that high external locus of control would be positively related to greater behavior adjustment problems, as has been found with some groups of older children and adults. (RL)

Observes the seating arrangements by sex of three or more people seated at rectangular tables in 176 social and 150 nonsocial settings. Postulates the importance of situational context and learned sexual norms in the observed spatial behaviors. (RL)

This study demonstrated the effectiveness of a therapeutic motor development program based on a games analysis model for reducing feminine game choices in emotionally disturbed boys. (MM)

Suicide among black Americans has risen sharply in this decade. The suicide pattern differs from that of white Americans in that black suicide is mainly a youth phenomenon and the rates between black females and black males are relatively equal. The lack of research into these phenomena is highlighted. (Author)

In seminar situations, more informed decisions might be made as a result of verbal exchanges if a free flow of ideas is possible, but this study suggests that status structures deter development towards sound logical conclusions. Status hierarchies occur, and periods of useless oratory support status systems at the expense of educational aims. The…

This study shows a change in ethnocentrism could be accomplished through use of behavior modification techniques. A total of 18 Caucasian subjects were divided into six groups: three control groups and three experimental groups. Results showed reinforcement was effective in producing attitude change. (Author)

The relationship of unrealistic vocational choice to other unrealistic behavioral responses was examined by having subjects with judged realistic or unrealistic vocational choices estimate performance over trials on a visual pursuit task. Results did not confirmthe hypothesized relationship between unrealism in vocational choice behavior and…

A study involving 24 5-year-old children and their mothers was conducted to examine the relationship between children's oppositional behavior and the following two variables: number of commands issued and time from command presentation. (Author/SBH)

Social information-processing patterns in 9- through 12-year olds at least partially supported 3 hypotheses: only reactive-aggressive children would demonstrate hostile biases in their attributions of intentions in provocation situations; only proactive-aggressive children would evaluate aggression in positive ways; and proactive-aggressive…

In a speech, Boston University (Massachusetts) president Jon Westling used "Somnolent Samantha" as an example of potential for student abuse of identification as learning disabled. Because Samantha was fictitious, 10 students have sued the university, charging Westling with holding an unfair view of students with learning disabilities.…

This article considers the perseverative and passive behavior patterns common in children with intellectual disabilities and often the focus of educational interventions. It suggests that, instead of always being an impediment to progress, these behaviors may sometimes be appropriate and adaptive responses of a slow mind to coping in a world that…

Compared Coyne's interpersonal model of depression to Lewinsohn's social skill model of depression in a large sample of nonreferred college students (N=202). Contrary to both Coyne and Lewinsohn, no evidence of a direct relation between social support and depression was found. Results suggest social skills deficits are a consequence, not a cause,…

Reviews literature on drinking among college students and reports gender variations in drinking patterns and problems among this population. Examines incidence of drinking, frequency and consumption of drinking, gender differential, beverage preferences, drinking locations, and drinking problems. Concludes that higher percentage of college men…