Discusses (1) knowledge teachers are trying to teach when they ask children to read stories about incidences of pain and horror; (2) how preservice elementary teachers experience the dangers and the possibilities involved in using such literature; (3) principles literary practitioners call upon to assist readers in working through the psychic…

Examines theoretical aspects of projective identification and suggests procedures for processing projective identification in group counseling and therapy. Discusses projective identification and related defense mechanisms, systems and boundaries, and scapegoating. Some of the stages in processing projective identification include the relationship…

A case study of three adults (ages 46-47) with Down syndrome investigated the patterns of symptoms associated with depression and dementia. Characteristics that distinguish between dementia and depression in adults with Down syndrome are described. Periodic comprehensive assessment of adults with Down syndrome to detect functioning changes is…

Research has shown that adolescent tobacco users are much more likely to progress to illicit drugs than are nonusers. This article suggests potential psychosocial reasons for progression based on principles of learning theory, Theory of Reasoned Action, Health Belief Model, and Cognitive Dissonance. Also discusses neuropharmacologic components to…

Examines comorbidity among depressive symptoms, conduct problems, and alcohol and drug abuse in a sample of 1,050 students. Those reporting high levels of depression, along with either alcohol abuse or conduct problems, were more likely to attempt suicide than students reporting only one of these disorders. Other findings are reported. (RJM)

Examined eating attitudes, body satisfaction, reasons for exercise, and psychological wellbeing among female nonathletes and college athletes. Data from participant surveys revealed less eating disorder symptomatology and more healthy psychological functioning among athletes, suggesting that female athletic involvement could be associated with…

This study of 10 aggressive and 9 nonaggressive preschool boys found that both groups attempted the same repertoire of social goals and used the same social strategies, but with varying relative frequencies. Aggressive children sought to stop or prevent action more often and used intrusive strategies more often than nonaggressive children.…

Assessed organizational commitment, satisfaction, intention to leave, willingness to relocate, desire for promotion, timing of promotion, and career stage in female managers (N=204). Found women's experiences were more closely aligned with how old they were than with where they were in their career suggesting shifting career attitudes are function…

Asks whether or not there is a need, which emerges inescapably during the course of human development, to identify some people as allies and others as enemies. In answering this question, it describes the potential for moral splitting within everyone, and the circumstances that activate this potential. (Author)

Explores the social and psychological functions of religion for rural residents, defines and clarifies the concept of religious-based denial as a coping mechanism, and discusses effective strategies for intervention by social workers and service providers. Contains 24 references. (SV)

This paper analyzes electronic mail and its role in adult education, identifies research on the educational implications of electronic mail, and discusses theoretical issues from an economic, psychological, and sociological perspective. (SK)

Investigated effects of environmental changes on functioning of 134 nursing home residents relocated to new facility, in comparison with 145 nonrelocated residents of a similar facility. Found that physical functioning and orientation were not affected by relocation. Stabilizing effect on mood, relative increase in withdrawn behavior, and decline…

The emotional experience of one teacher was studied in depth using phenomenological interviews and participant observation. The teacher experienced a variety of emotions generated when the instructional dynamics of the lesson were congruent or incongruent with his professional practical knowledge, and a compelling emotional state of "being a…

Tested Cooper and Fazio's dissonance model. Subjects made arguments that were consistent or inconsistent with their attitudes and were provided feedback about consequences. Attitude-change effect only occurred when behaviors were both inconsistent and resulted in aversive consequences. Results suggest that cognitive inconsistency may be necessary…

Considers the role of obligation in counselors' motivation to do their work. Observes that narrative practices related to the humanities, and to religious and spiritual traditions, may help counselors when obligation-based motivation is overwhelmed by the harsher elements of human nature and of the counseling profession. (RJM)