A majority of social skills research in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and interventions target school age males and no published studies target adolescent females with ASD or related disabilities. Females with ASD are at risk for internalizing symptoms, and experience greater challenges in socialization and communication as social demands become…

Reviews the growth of self-help groups and the current status of the movement. Suggests ways in which counselors can draw upon such groups in their professional practicies. Includes suggestions for evaluating groups and resources on self-help groups. (Author/ABB)

Describes a workshop providing tools for self-confrontation and for acquiring self-help methods of making the desired changes in participants' daily lives. Many participants came to the realization that they are not passive victims of life, that they do make choices, and that they shape their lives by those choices. (Author/BEF)

Reports a study that evaluated the appropriateness and effectiveness of a self-help manual for postsecondary education students who used smokeless tobacco. Students participated in groups that received either two or four sessions of support for using the self-help manual. Results indicated both groups produced similar cessation rates. (SM)

Presents stories of low-income fathers (N=20) who participated in a Responsible Fatherhood (RF) program in a large urban area. A hermeneutic phenomenological methodology was used to document participants' memories of becoming fathers, the benefits and barriers to them remaining in the program, and their suggestions for program improvement.…

The article describes three self-help programs designed to reduce disruption in secondary schools. (SW)

Implemented weekly self-help group for female anorexics and bulimics. Eighteen women who had consistently attended sessions evaluated group six months after it had begun. Found that self-help group benefited most members. Discusses findings in relation to curative factors of such groups. Offers suggestions for professionals interested in…

A self-administered assertiveness training program trained refusal of unreasonable requests from strangers and close relationships. Comparison with a placebo program indicated the assertiveness program produced superior effectiveness of assertion, content of assertion, verbalization of assertion-related obligations, persistent assertive…

Despite the widespread nature and significant impact of trichotillomania (TTM), relatively few controlled studies have evaluated treatment options for people with this disorder. Pharmacological treatment and behavior therapy are the two most widely accepted approaches to treating TTM, but few mental health professionals with appropriate expertise…

Evaluated two self-help behavior therapy books for stopping smoking against a minimal treatment program. Results indicated under self-administered conditions, the minimal treatment program was as effective as the behavior therapy books. On the self-report measures, therapist contact was associated with improved treatment outcome for the behavior…

Evaluates the use of Occu-Sort (O-S), a career exploration system, with high school students. Students reacted positively to the amount of thinking and writing O-S requires. Time and space can be problematic. Users appreciate its immediate feedback. O-S shows promise as a method of assisting students in meeting career development needs.…

A survey of medical students in self-help groups revealed that social affiliation and an opportunity to express feelings in a "safe" environment were primary attractions. Nonprofessional faculty contact, support from fellow students, and stimulating discussions about medicine were the main benefits. (Author/MSE)

Described is a one-year study initiated to assist six teachers in developing student self-assessment instructional packages and to evaluate the impact of these materials on teacher/student behavior and attitudes. One of the lesson plans, on dress and manners for secondary students, is included. (Author/SJL)

Described is an empowerment and self-advocacy training program for individuals with disabilities and parents of young children with disabilities, called Partners in Policymaking. Discussed are first-year activities, program evaluation data from participants, and both quantitative and qualitative short-term outcome data collected from first-year…

Describes the evaluation of various components of a self-help smokeless tobacco cessation manual that used relapse prevention, social contracting, and peer education to help high school seniors. Results suggest that use of the manual effectively helped reduce smokeless tobacco use. Recommendations for persons using the manual are included. (SM)