Using an ethological framework, explores the ways in which family pets, in particular dogs and cats, provide certain components of attachment that contribute to emotional and social well-being throughout the life cycle. Implications are identified for social policies that will protect and maintain this bond for particular populations. (RJM)

An analytic model is offered which assesses child health indicators in terms of three interacting determinants: social well-being, technical capacity to reduce the risk that low social status conveys, and access to this technical capacity. The paper examines political requirements of such indicators and illustrates how the indicators can remain…

This qualitative and interpretive study of the normalization effort for individuals with mental retardation in Sweden analyzes the cultural context; legislation, jurisdictional considerations, and societal attitudes; potential barriers to integration; and the economics of service provision. Sweden's system of comprehensive service and support…

This paper explores the relationship between mental activity and physical well-being, through examination of such component activities as imagery, relaxation, sociodrama, and play. The paper concludes that wellness involves the physical and mental health of an individual, positive future images, and true communication with ourselves and others.…

Examined cherished possessions and adaptation to nursing home of 100 nursing home residents. Findings showed those with possessions were better adapted; possessions served functions of historical continuity, comfort, and belongingness; and more women than men had cherished possessions. (Author/PVV)

According to data from national survey of 17,110 children under age 18, children living with single mothers or with mothers and stepfathers were more likely than those living with both biological parents to have repeated a grade, been expelled, been treated for emotional or behavioral problems, and to have elevated scores for behavioral problems…

Examined perceptions of social competence and family dynamics among adolescent participants in school-sponsored and independent sports (baseball and skateboarding). Findings from 271 adolescents revealed that perceptions of social competence were differentially related to degree of sports involvement and perceived skill but were not related to…

Examined whether racial identity attitudes and gender-role attitudes predicted psychological well-being among 143 Black female college students and nonstudents. Found that racial identity attitudes predicted mental health variables in both samples, that preencounter attitudes were negative predictor of general well-being and self-esteem for both…

A three-year study examined adult physical activity preferences, comparing data to past surveys on the subject. Data from health assessment surveys indicate that the most popular activities are walking, swimming, dance, and bicycling. Data tables and indications on cautious interpretation of the data are included. (SM)

Content analysis of National Network of State Conferences for School Worksite Wellness conference components for 22 states analyzed conference goals, keynote sessions, workshops, and evaluations. There was substantial variability among states (e.g., length of conference and workshop content), but all states conducted evaluations and used the…

This article describes a professional development six-part model based on a holistic approach which assumes that educators' professional behavior is not influenced by a single factor in their professional environment, but by the totality of their educational and professional experience. (IAH)

Notes that interest in wellness among colleges and universities appears to have been growing in recent years, particularly among divisions of student affairs. Sees wellness as represented by six dimensions: physical, intellectual, occupational, social, emotional, and spiritual. Provides specific practical recommendations for designing and…

Examined relationship between employment preferences and well-being among 111 black, single, employed mothers with preschool child and low income. Mothers whose employment status was consistent with preference had lower role strain and higher life satisfaction. Having no education past high school and male child predicted significantly higher…

Despite data suggesting a relationship between investment in children's health and improved academic performance, school health financing is inadequate, inequitable, and fragmented. Strategies for improving school health programs include leadership from the nursing profession; collaboration among health professionals; consolidation of funding…

Tested hypothesis that use of different languages in telephone survey could adversely affect cross-cultural comparability of standardized research measures. Of 2,299 persons surveyed in 1988 National Survey of Hispanic Elderly People, 86.6% were interviewed in Spanish and 13.4% were interviewed in English. Factor structure associated with positive…