Some infants experience unusual stress from pregnancy through the postnatal period and are especially called upon to exercise coping responses. Discusses unusual stressors, how the infant naturally copes with them, and how caregivers can provide assistance. Reviews studies on stress-relieving intervention techniques. (NH)

Presents evidence for a model of risk factors, including depression, hopelessness, lack of social support, and negative self-evaluations, that contribute to suicidal ideation among normative and clinically depressed adolescents. (HTH)

Presents a clinical-developmental framework of adolescent suicidal behavior that combines theory, research, and interviews with adolescent girls under psychiatric care for suicide attempts. (HTH)

Examined the developmental benefits of adolescents' close intimate friendships with real same-sex friends and imaginary companions in two studies of adolescents who wrote diaries. Found that, even with a high incidence of imaginary companionship as described in diaries, adolescents preferred intense relationships with close real same-sex friends…

Applies a 5-stage model of suicide causal theories to the ways in which 113 adolescents handled their suicidal impulses. Distinguished three types of resources that foster coping with such impulses: (1) general motivational resources; (2) general dimensions of ego development; and (3) commonsense theories as a specific interpretation of a concrete…

Examines the role of continuity of self-concept during changes faced by adolescents in insulating them against the risks of suicide, outlining five increasingly complex ways in which adolescents define themselves. Compares the continuity claims of suicidal and nonsuicidal adolescents, finding that those considered at high risk for suicide lacked…

Discusses research concerning individual differences in children that appear to be associated with vicarious emotional responses and a tendency to engage in prosocial behavior. Focuses on research concerning parents' influence on children's methods for coping with their own and others' emotions and children's social behavior. (BB)

A model of the development of prayer is offered. The development of prayer on the part of 89 middle-class adolescents and young adults from Catholic schools was studied. Results supported the model. (Author/BB)