Contends that for 30 years the study of moral development has been prominent in psychology and education. Argues that there are two major cognitive components underlying moral action: (1) the interpretation of moral situations; and (2) the resolution of moral conflicts. Discusses this viewpoint in relation to moral orientation and moral character.…

In an examination of the feasibility of developing a "European melting pot," the psychosocial situation of Italian youth in Germany was studied. The need to develop a consciousness for political and social, not just economic, unity of all European countries is noted. (12 references) (Author/LB)

Suggests the most important issue facing Catholic educators is whether to mirror contemporary society's individualism or act as leaven to transform it. Views such social trends as the emphasis on lifelong development, recognition of spirituality, and awareness of different styles of learning as promising for change. (BCY)

Discusses implications for community colleges of five observations about contemporary society: political processes/institutions unable to deal with significant issues in substantial ways; a seeming return to local responsibility/control; a dichotomy between problems and solutions; a reluctance to face facts; and the persistence of turfism.…

Notes the omission of a historical perspective in the research papers in this special issue on prosocial and aggressive play. Maintains that the past several hundred years can be characterized as a time of domesticating children's play, and that more research on rough-and-tumble play is needed. (LB)

Discusses the wave of cocaine abuse that followed the drug's recommendation by the late nineteenth-century medical community as a cure all. Details drug addiction among ethnic and social groups at the turn of the century. Warns that drug epidemics have important social and legal consequences. Suggests legal pressure may alter the form of drug…

The author presents culture as a psychological construct. Since both intracultural and intercultural views mirror each other, all interpersonal encounters are cross-cultural in nature, requiring counselors to confront barriers in interpersonal understanding. Overcoming these barriers demands both an awareness of cultural processes and the…

The distinction between the culture of a country and the culture of an individual is discussed, and its implications for second-language teaching are examined, particularly in the multicultural classroom. This concept is illustrated through use of a French travel and for second-language instruction. (MSE)

Contends that education was an important instrument of social change during the French Revolution. Argues that education became a way to speed up social modernization and, at the same time, hide the contradictions of modernization. (CFR)

Discusses demographic trends affecting all Western countries that have an impact on the symbolic and social role of the family. Considers the effects of women's increased labor force participation on the timing of childbirths and women's likeliness to accept or seek divorce. Also considers the role of grandparents in child care, and explores…

Perceives an increase in adult expectations of children's competence and a concomitant narrowing of what is considered normal child behavior. Questions the growing practice of placing children in "transition,""pre-K," and "pre-first" classes, and in pull-out "gifted" programs. Calls for greater acceptance of variety among children. (PAA)

Longitudinal studies of three boomtowns and one stable community in Utah and Wyoming found that "neighboring" (neighbors' task support, emotional support, and familiarity) was not affected by rapid economic or population growth, but was related to local sociocultural features--familism, social status, religion, and residential stability.…

Discusses social trends outlined in the Popcorn Report (Faith Popcorn) that affect outdoor education, including constant political, cultural, and personal change and the many life roles people maintain. Most important to outdoor education are the trends of increased consumer awareness, concern with physical health and overall wellness, and the…

Reviews the impact of German unification on German society, politics, and culture. Contends that four decades of separation created political and cultural differences that are difficult to overcome. Expresses concern about the growth of intolerant attitudes and nationalism among citizens of the former East Germany. (CFR)

Describes the German health insurance system which is mandatory for nearly all German citizens. Explains that, along with pension, accident, and unemployment insurance, health insurance is one of four pillars of the German national social security system. Asserts that controlling costs while maintaining high health care standards is a national…