Describes how to identify microcomputer problems and determine whether the services of a technician are required by troubleshooting, or using a process of elimination, without needing a technical background or special tools. Prevention methods and the use of diagnostic programs are also explained. (EM)

A formula for assessing specific risk of lightning strikes is provided. Recent legal cases are used to illustrate potential liability. Six actions park managers can take to minimize danger from lightning are presented, and commonsense rules which should be publicly posted are listed. (MT)

With adolescents as the most likely victims of suicide, students can become the first line of defense. This article outlines reasons for suicide, warning signs and behaviors, and ways to help. Activities that enable students to view suicide as a desperate act which can be understood and prevented are suggested. (MT)

The article reviews efforts to set child abuse prevention goals in the U.S., noting research on program effectiveness and the role of maltreatment in child mortality. Alternative models for assessing the impact of prevention are described and the need to clarify and specify goals in prevention is stressed. (CL)

The results of three recently presented clinical studies and a biomechanical study of the use of lateral knee braces to prevent knee injuries are reviewed. The results raise serious doubts about the efficacy of the preventive knee braces which are currently available. (Author/MT)

Near-death experiences, profound subjective experiences occurring during a close brush with death and containing transcendental or mystical elements, have been reported to reduce suicidal ideation, despite their "romanticization" of death. Further studies are indicated in regard to the effect of those experiences on subsequent suicidal…

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)

The author presents an overview of the dropout problem, pointing out that what is really a diverse set of problems requires multiple approaches. (MT)

Explains the increase in adolescent suicidal behavior reported for most countries in the European Economic Community over the last two decades, within the framework of a social learning theory. A typology of suicidal acts based on an outcome-expectancy model is proposed. (Author/BL)

Because disabled children and adults may be particularly vulnerable to sexual abuse, the author discusses warning symptoms (such as sleep and appetite disturbances, and unusual demands for affection or attention) and suggests approaches in both responding to abuse and preventing abuse. (CL)

Shoplifting is as American as income tax fraud and motorists ignoring the 55 m.p.h. speed limit. It knows no age, economic, social, racial, or religious barriers. Shoplifters' motives and methods are examined and ways of combating shoplifting are discussed. (RM)

The paper examines the nature of abnormal stereotyped behavior, favoring a self-stimulation theory over one emphasizing an intrinsic oscillator mechanism. Questions of prevention are noted. (Author/CL)

Alcohol use is legal for persons age 21 and older, and the majority of people who drink do so without incident. However, there is a continuum of potential problems associated with alcohol consumption. This brief addresses the definition of an "alcohol problem" and problems associated with "risky drinking." It also addresses the…

This presentation and training aid provides a brief overview and discussion of the nature and scope of youth suicide, what prevention programs try to do, a framework for a public health approach, guides to programs and more. This material can be used for both handouts and as overheads for use with presentations. (GCP)

This poster presentation addresses the issue of date rape, specifically in the college environment. Highlighted are date rape statistics, demographics, and date rape drugs. Also discussed are date rape warnings and prevention strategies. It is concluded that college and university administrators must place the issue of date rape and acquaintance…