Summarizes broadly representative research and promising practices in school systems aimed at reducing discipline problems and school crime. Advises that disciplinary strategies and procedures should be developed in collaboration with school staff and students and be administered fairly and consistently. (15 references) (MLF)

Used 2-year prospective study of 2,102 young adolescents to assess relationship between family structure (intact, one-parent, stepparent) and whether cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana, and sexual intercourse had ever been tried. Logistic regression results showed significantly higher levels of ever-usage for children of nonintact families. (Author/NB)

Discusses some of the legal questions raised when infants and children of drug-abusing mothers are exposed to crack. Courts have generally moved in a punitive direction against these mothers although some critics warn against intervention that is too fast. Foster care system has been overwhelmed by these difficult cases, and many child welfare…

Describes bibliotherapeutic process and techniques that mental health counselors can use to effect intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual growth in older persons. Envisions new opportunities for work with older persons who are chemically dependent, victims of abuse, or Alzheimer patients. Proposes research tool that observes participant's…

Teachers and staff as well as students are not immune to substance abuse. Presented are simple guidelines on what to look for in physical effects, what to do if someone is suspected, and how to get help. (SI)

A survey of 23 White and 58 Hispanic adolescent mothers (up to 17 years old) indicated that over 50 percent used cigarettes, marijuana, or alcohol before 12-16 weeks of pregnancy, but most substance use ceased after 12-16 weeks of pregnancy. No significant differences existed between ethnic groups in substance use. (SLD)

Examines possible relationships between self-efficacy for avoiding marijuana use and theoretically related measures in a sample of 161 men and 51 women who sought marijuana cessation treatments. Predictive validity was stronger for frequency of posttreatment use than for abstinence status. Discusses the need for better assessment of the efficacy…

Many drug abuse prevention programs and materials, such as the "Smart Choices" newsletter for kindergartners, are developmentally inappropriate for young children. Successful preventive measures need to address the mixed messages that society itself gives to children about alcohol and other drugs and present developmentally appropriate instruction…

Focusing dental efforts on hard-core and high-risk smokers can decrease smoking prevalence. Challenges to the dental profession include professional legitimacy, dental professional education, defining special populations, and overcoming barriers to access. Opportunities include strategic placement, strategic relations with those serving high-risk…

A self-administered survey examining multiple factors associated with engaging in sexual intercourse was completed by 1,026 high school students in a classroom setting. Findings suggest that effective interventions to address teenage pregnancy need to utilize a multifaceted approach to the prevention of high-risk behaviors. (JPS)

Profiles of adolescent female offenders in the literature suggest that these women have unique needs. Descriptions of selected characteristics and assessment considerations were synthesized from relevant research. Recommendations are discussed that propose changing educational programming in order to meet the specific needs of these adolescents.…

Examines the relationship of adolescents' perceived family environment to several aspects of their self-reported alcohol use, smoking behavior, and involvement with illegal drugs and solvents. A sample of 12- to 16-year olds (n=1,045) completed questionnaires. Males who perceived "authoritarian" or "neglecting" families…

Explores issues surrounding sexual trauma and chemical dependency. Aims to provide direction for relapse prevention with a relapse-prone population and explores application of traditional milieu substance-abuse treatment for sexual-trauma survivors. Makes recommendations for working with sexual-trauma survivors who are also substance abusers. (RJM)

Explores the most effective strategy roles that coalitions can play in the prevention of complex, entrenched, social and health problems such as violence, alcoholism, and other substance abuse problems. The paper also outlines the key internal capacities a coalition will need in order to establish a support system for prevention initiatives. (GR)

Presents a preliminary phenomenological investigation to obtain a better understanding of the attitudes, motivations, feelings, and beliefs associated with the use of cocaine. Highlights an important aspect of the relationship between cocaine use and earlier experiences of empowerment. (JBJ)