This article describes an approach to reading instruction in which teachers use principles of functional analysis to generate hypotheses for the causes of reading failure, which are then used to guide the selection and implementation of interventions. Five possible causes of reading difficulties are described, and each is accompanied by suggested…

This article discusses the difficulties in meeting the needs of diverse student populations including those with learning and/or behavioral difficulties while meeting the demands of standards and accountability. It stresses the importance of matching the reading instructional program to the specific needs of the student and fine-tuning strategies…

This article presents answers to common questions about use of contingency contracts for behavior management with students needing individualized programs in academic or social-emotional areas. A methodological format for developing contracts, a planning worksheet, and a sample contract are included. (DB)

The article reviews research and its clinical implications concerning children with speech, language, and communication disorders who also have or are at risk for developing emotional and behavioral disorders. Issues addressed include differential diagnosis, prevention, intervention, and the role of speech-language pathologists. (Author/DB)

Comparison of a taped-words procedure and a drill procedure on the correct oral reading rates of five adolescents with behavior disorders and academic deficiencies found improvement related to the opportunities to respond rather than to the model provided by the taped-words procedure. (DB)

Investigates the relationship between social-behavioral competence and behavior disorders among preschoolers in a Head Start program. Results indicate that children identified as externalizers and internalizers are clearly different from those in the control group on a range of adjustment measures. (Author/BB)

Analysis of 214 Individualized Education Programs for students with behavior disorders assigned to public school resource, self-contained, and cross-categorical and residential/institutional special education programs found many lacked mandated components and contained discrepancies between annual goals and present performance levels across age…

Identifies disruptive behaviors of children that may indicate central auditory processing disorders (CAPDs), perceptual handicaps of auditory discrimination or auditory memory not related to hearing ability. Outlines steps to modify the communication environment for CAPD children at home and in the classroom. (SV)

The position paper of the Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders rejects the Regular Education Initiative based on the lack of evidence supporting proposals for radical restructuring, the lack of eligibility standards for services, and the lessons of history. It affirms the need for an array of service options. (DB)

Hypothesizes that traumatization underlies the difficulties many children experience from witnessing their parents' marital violence/spousal abuse, and argues that intervention should be designed to counteract post-traumatic disorders. A case study highlights this discussion. (BB)

Suggests steps for facilitating the integration of students with emotional or behavioral disorders into the regular music classroom. Recommends easing mainstreaming by: (1) setting up systematic placement procedures; (2) providing adequate classroom structure; (3) "generalizing" programs used in special education; and (4) attending to the…

Questionnaire data on 139 undergraduate and 144 graduate special education programs indicated that the ecological approach is included in programs to train teachers of the behaviorally disordered and that the emphasis on course hours and practice is similar for undergraduate and graduate levels. (Author/DB)

Study found differential effects for five types of teacher directions (verbal instruction, nonverbal instruction, verbal instruction with physical assistance, nonverbal instruction with physical assistance, and physical assistance) with 24 severely behaviorally disordered students, aged 9-16. Nonverbal commands resulted in the most appropriate…

The Special Education Learning Center in Hartford, Connecticut, successfully teaches students with serious behavioral disorders. The program features a behavioral curriculum, built around rewards, punishments, a fully supervised setting, collegial support, and physical intervention. (TE)

A philosophy and specific procedures are presented for counseling families of aggressive children. Guidelines focus on parent/staff member collaboration, accessibility and dependability of counselors, avoiding creation of additional conflict, using life cycle explanations to reduce parents' self-blame, confronting unrealistic self-ideals,…