Described is the use of motivational strategy for instruction in remedial handwriting, and explained is the use of specific behavior modification techniques with a group of 10 students (9 to 11-years-old) with poor handwriting. (IM)

This research looks at the effects of laboratory training on self concept. The gestalt and encounter approaches are employed to test the amount of self concept change possible in group experiences. (YRJ)

The effect of principal attention contingent upon tem on-task performance was examined in an unruly fourth-grade class. Principal attention was found to be a strong reinforcer in both experimental conditions, but percentage of on-task behavior during team consequences was higher than during individual consequences. (Author)

Female (N = 4) interviewers, two black and two white, portrayed expert or referent role and attempted to influence 32 white subjects to use problemsolving processes and perform career-planning activities. Significant interactions of race and role were obtained such that black-expert and white-referent interviewers were most influential in attitude…

The absence of genital stimulation in a 16-year-old severely retarded male (IQ 21) was reinforced with a combination of edibles and a stereotypic behavior. Among results were that edibles alone maintained the reductions in genital stimulation, and that withholding edibles had little effect in reducing the stereotypic behavior. (Author/JW)

Computer-assisted direct behavioral observation is proposed to aid sensory integration therapy. This allows the occupational therapist to quantify data, devise and answer research questions, and assess progress. Advice is given on establishing a behavior taxonomy. Computer-assisted direct behavioral observation is examined and found valuable for…

Analyzes the character and consequences of changes in the social networks of spouses following separation and divorce. For men, traditions encourage the development of personal friendships while simultaneously encouraging independence. Women, who accept responsibility for "kinkeeping" during and after marriage, simultaneously discouraging bonds…

Outlines the therapeutic process in social skills training with 22 socially dysfunctional outpatients who met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for avoidant personality disorder. Measured performance of prosocial target behaviors and associated subjective anxiety during baseline, treatment, and follow-up periods.…

The supervision and training of women requires consideration of how to address issues brought to the training process as a result of sex-role typing. Dependent behavior and attitudes need to be overcome in a training process that leads to therapist competency and creativity. Strategic supervision benefits women by increasing self-reliance, sense…

Ten mentally retarded clients in a small work activity center were effectively trained to use social amenities during work-related communications. Training consisted of prework review of the rules of social amenities, frequent reminders during work by supervisors, client repetition of the reminders, and focused practice. (Author/DB)

The exploratory study examined the effectiveness of the Van Dijk method of developing language skills with four deaf-blind infants and their mothers over a two-month period. Findings indicated increased expressive/elocutionary communicative output with concomitant reduction in self-stimulatory, abusive, and tantrum-like behaviors. (DB)

The study analyzed effects of a self recording procedure upon the maintenance of appropriate eating behaviors of a moderately retarded six-year-old boy. Results suggested that this technique can maintain acceptable levels of established behaviors with a minimum of teacher intervention and a maximum of student independence. (Author/DB)

This review of recent studies on prevention of drug and alcohol abuse among adolescents analyzes components of various preventive programs including those emphasizing knowledge, attitude modification, and remediation of skill deficits to improve ability to resist peer pressures. Missing in most programs is direct manipulation of positive or…

Strategies typically used for teaching academic skills can also be used to teach disabled children to become more socially competent. They include modeling, strategic placement, correspondence training, rehearsal and practice, positive reinforcement/shaping, prompting and coaching, positive practice, and multimethod training packages. (VW)