Education in its root meaning refers to the process of "drawing out" from the person that special uniqueness that is there. Given the different settings of family and school, what each knows about a child is often slightly different. A sharing of their perceptions can be extremely valuable to both. (Author/SJL)

A parent education program using a classroom format was effective in teaching parents concepts and application of social learning theory to child behavioral development. Results are discussed in terms of efficiency, prevention of childhood behavior problems, program content, and changes in parent behavior. (Author)

With the increase in the number of remarriages in which children are involved, stepfamilies are becoming a prevalent form of American family life. This paper examines the step-family literature and highlights the socialization difficulties present in this very unique adjustment process. (Author)

Defining critical thinking and discussing its relevance to the ethics and epistemology of education, the author presents three reasons why it is an educational ideal: (1) it forms the basis of a moral process of teaching; (2) it prepares students to manage their adult lives; and (3) it initiates students into rational traditions. (SK)

This longitudinal study examined the relationship of three domains (personality/attitudinal orientations, peer relationships, and family socialization factors) with initiation into adolescent marihuana use. (Author/DB)

Investigated males' and females' sociometric evaluation of same- and opposite-sex elementary school classmates. Sex differences were noted. (Author/DB)

Presents an outcome study of a 14-session preadolescent peer-group therapy program conducted in an elementary school. Results indicated that group members improved significantly in task-oriented classroom behaviors; however, the relationship between this improvement and improved social skills in unclear. (Author)

Examines the attitudinal effects of academic and experiential behavioral training among undergraduate psychology students. Findings indicated that students in a class, but not those in a practicum, became more accepting of behavior modification. Method and results are discussed. (DB)

A report is given of a study on how young children develop social skills in situations where rules are adapted to the flow of conversation. (JD)

Discusses using popular detective and espionage fiction in courses related to area politics, international relations, political terrorism, socialization, and bureaucratic politics. Suggests several novels and ways in which they may be integrated into courses. (KC)

Caretaking of children by siblings, cousins, or other peers is widespread in most developing nations. The influence of peers as mediators of social change cannot be underestimated. (RH)

Reviews research relating to whether the socialization effects of interscholastic athletics retard delinquent behavior, particularly among high school students. Suggests that more testing and appraisal of high school athletics programs should be encouraged. (Author/DB)

Describes the development and assessment of evaluation instruments designed to test student political-citizenship knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The tests are a part of the Improving Citizenship Education Project in Fulton County, Georgia. (Author/CK)

Little evidence is found for the proposition that the failure of Mexican Americans to integrate and attach themselves to American political and social life can be attributed to negative personal experiences with political authorities. (Author/RLV)

To determine if exposure to a sociology course tends to encourage students toward liberal attitudes, an 18-item questionnaire was administered before and after an introductory sociology course at Colorado State University. Results showed an aggregate shift toward liberalism, even when controlling for students' age and professorial style.…