Implemented a behavioral treatment program for obesity using an interactive microcomputer system small enough to be carried by subjects. Subjects receiving the computer-assisted treatment lost approximately 2.5 times as much weight as controls and their rate of weight loss equaled that for more elaborate behavioral treatments. (MCF)

The demand for therapy has increased 400 percent in the past three decades, noting that about 250 different therapies treat the one syndrome shared by all patients, namely, demoralization. Whether such therapies really work is the subject of this report. (JN)

Differential reinforcement procedures were combined with momentary restraint conditions to reduce the stereotypic behaviors of three visually impaired, severely disabled students (7-10 years old). Procedures were carried out in a classroom setting by classroom staff. (Author/CL)

Crossed two relapse prevention conditions (skills training-vs-discussion control) with two levels of aversive smoking in volunteer subjects (N=123). Results indicated that relapse-prevention skill training did prevent relapse among cigarette smokers. Lighter smokers were more favorably influenced. (LLL)

Explores the effectiveness of coping responses reported to a hotline by ex-smokers (N=264) dealing with temptations to smoke. Results showed that combining cognitive and behavioral responses enhanced effectiveness. The use of "willpower" was significantly inferior to other cognitive responses, and self-punitive thoughts were entirely…

Attempted to identify in a series of six studies, behavioral and cognitive procedures that would enhance adherence to a three-day-per-week exercise program in apparently healthy sedentary adults (N=143). Results suggested the importance of social support, feedback, and praise during exercise; flexibility in exercise goal setting; and…

Outlines both broad and specific treatment issues concerning elective mute children. A group treatment modality is presented, and its successes, limitations, and failures are noted with recommendations for avoiding pitfalls in treatment. Issues of cooperation with schools, families, and community organizations are also addressed. (JAC)

Used latency to hot flash onset under heat stress to evaluate the effects of relaxation treatment or a control procedure in 14 menopausal women. Following treatment, the latency to hot flash onset during heat stress was increased in relaxation subjects. Reported symptom frequency was significantly reduced in relaxation subjects. (BH)

Subjects (N=414) averaging 51 pounds overweight were followed by telephone questionnaire for the first 12 weeks of their Weight Watchers participation. Dropouts (N=101) reported lower self-efficacy at the beginning of their memberships and were less likely to feel successful in weight control although their weight loss did not differ…

Examines whether cognitive behavior therapy represents a legitimate or premature set of therapeutic techniques. Explores the emergent integration of cognitive and behavioral approaches to psychotherapy both historically and conceptually. Reviews sources for the trend to include cognition in behavior therapy and analyzes the cognitive-behavioristic…

Clarifies countercontrol (opposition or resistance to intervention) by discussing variables that may bring it about. Presents implications for programing to lessen the possibility of this phenomenon. (Author/CL)

Learning disabled students can be taught to monitor their own attention, thus avoiding traditional approaches that place the LD child in a passive role. Results of self-monitoring studies are reviewed, and issues for future study are cited. (CL)

A variety of commonly used treatment modalities presently being utilized in the U.S. are described by Richard Phillipson, M.D. at the American Medical Association's National Conference on Physicians and Schools, Chicago, 1971. (BY)

The author relates his experiences in using a modified form of systematic desensitization in a public school setting with counselees whose success and development are hampered by test anxiety and fear of public speaking. (Author)

Generalizability and durability of the overjustification effect (on decline in intrinsic motivation due to the lack of rewards in behavior modification programs) were examined in 35 normal preschool children and 17 mental age-matched retarded children. (Author/SW)