Presents evidence describing benefits of behavioral interventions such as aerobic exercise training on both psychological and immunological functioning among high risk human immunodeficiency virus-Type 1 (HIV-1) seronegative and very early stage seropositive homosexual men. HIV-1 infection is cast as chronic disease for which early…

Reviewed studies of three different target groups for preventing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) among intravenous drug users. For users entering drug treatment and those continuing to inject, studies showed rapidly induced AIDS risk reduction; suggest need for large-scale change maintained over time. Basic knowledge of AIDS did not…

Assessed teachers' (N=103) ratings of acceptability of classroom time-out procedure as a function of problem severity (mild versus severe), different interventionists (teacher vs. school psychologist), and reported effectiveness (effective versus no information). Found time-out significantly more acceptable for severe problem behaviors; it…

Investigated whether men (N=14) between ages 30 and 50 were able to increase their level of affective expressiveness as measured by both self-report and behavioral tests after participation in multimodal group intervention based on Social Learning Theory principles and targeted at changing expressiveness. Found men learned to express feelings…

The study examined effects of eight weeks of treatment with Vitamin B6-Magnesium on 11 autistic children sensitive to this treatment over a shorter term. The study found significant modifications in the electrophysiological, clinical, and biochemical data gathered before, during, and after treatment. (DB)

Evaluated effectiveness of posttreatment programs on weight loss maintenance. Assigned mildly and moderately obese adults (N=123) to either behavior therapy only or to behavior therapy combined with therapist-contact posttreatment maintenance programs which varied by use of social influence and/or aerobic exercise. Found all four posttreatment…

Fifteen techniques to limit or stop alcohol consumption were rated by 94 adolescents, aged 12 to 19, and their parents. Factor analysis of effectiveness ratings demonstrated consistency in appraisal of adult options for coping strategies, but significant differences in adolescent and parent views of how teenagers should cope with drinking…

Functional analyses were conducted with four individuals with profound mental retardation whose self-injurious behavior (SIB) had relapsed after successful treatment (also based on functional analysis). For three subjects, this second analysis revealed that SIB had acquired new or additional functions. Results suggest reasons other than program…

Belke and Spetch's (1994) work with pigeons on choice between reliable and unreliable reinforcement is discussed. Hypothetical applied examples address variables that influence preference for unreliable reinforcement, including signaling and its context, conditioned reinforcement, and duration of reinforcement schedules. Implications regarding…

This paper comments on the controversy surrounding the use of gentle teaching and applied behavior analysis. Strengths of gentle teaching are noted, such as its wide focus and emphasis on mutual change between client and caregiver. Behavioral interpretations are offered for behavior change reported in the use of gentle teaching procedures. (JDD)

A walking program for osteoarthritis patients promoted adoption by guided practice, reinforcement, and stimulus control; facilitated compliance by behavioral contracting; maintained behavior change through generalization and self-control strategies; and prevented relapse by realignment of normative beliefs and planned relapse techniques. (SK)

Examined role of group therapy, specifically marathon group work, as treatment of choice for drug-addicted individuals. Explored specific behavioral characteristics of drug-addicted population in interaction with specific therapeutic factors. Findings from 12 inmates who participated in group therapy supported the treatment value of the marathon…

This paper identifies and evaluates emerging developments in the behavioral pharmacotherapy of people with developmental disabilities, including such medications as the opiate antagonists, fenfluramine, beta adrenergic blockers, buspirone, antipsychotics, amantadine hydrochloride, and antilibidinal drugs. The need for more well-designed drug…

Explores reasons for lack of behavior change in response to the threat of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), focusing on psychosocial barriers to behavior change relevant to preventing the spread of AIDS. Draws from Health Belief Model to examine five variables: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity of consequences, perceived…

Assuming that educational planning is a communicative process involving the transmission of symbols to effect change, this article offers a transformative approach consolidating three basic transformations (symbols, frames of reference, and behavior). The articulation of vision, the socialization of expectations, and empowerment are conceptualized…