This study identified potential definitions of psychological abuse by having 381 citizens and 452 social workers rate vignettes of adult behaviors. Nine types of adult behaviors were identified by both groups, including confining a child in a small space, severe public humiliation, severe verbal abuse, threatening a child, and not allowing social…

A three-year longitudinal study compared children exposed to somewhat more musical influences with those exposed to little singing or music in nursery school settings. Findings indicated that the experimental group exceeded control group in frequency of vocalizations, rhythmic movements, initiations of social contact, and positive emotional…

Examined 3- to 13-year olds' memories for an experienced and a never-experienced medical procedure. Found that children 4 years or older at time of the procedure described it more accurately than did younger children. Longer delays between procedure and recall were related to providing fewer correct information units but not more inaccuracies.…

Examined relationship between emotion regulation at ages 5, 10, and 18 months, and compliance at 30 months. Found that infants with low levels of regulatory behavior were more likely to be noncompliant as toddlers. High cardiac vagal tone was related to noncompliance to toy clean-up, whereas low cardiac vagal tone was related to noncompliance to…

In a New York City community school, music therapy addresses the following social and emotional developmental goals: participation, interaction, relationships, communication, expression, space sharing, problem solving, self-esteem, respect, and awareness. (SK)

Presents interview with behavioral ecologist who discusses program concepts for stepfamily dysfunction. Four predictions which focus on stepfamily dynamics are: (1) expect greater conflict in stepfamily environments; (2) understand evolutionary basis of emotions; (3) anticipate flash points of family conflict; and (4) alter criteria for choosing…

Highlights a Resolving Conflict Creatively Program, which seeks to create school cultures based on values of caring and mutual respect. High-risk students may require more intensive interventions in order to foster social and emotional learning. Reports on a multiyear pilot project using a group curriculum with strong components of service…

Presents a review of several common emotional and developmental challenges faced by African American female college students who attend predominantly White colleges and universities. Suggests that these challenges can be addressed through programs that promote these students' psychological growth and maturity. Outlines a cognitive-developmental…

Reviews mainstream psychology's reductionisms and presents working concepts for a cultural-historical perspective on directivity. Discusses research on the organization of emotions for directing human behavior in Castile from an interdisciplinary approach of psychology, anthropology, and education. (MMU)

The multidimensional empathic response patterns of late adolescent undergraduate students (N=153) was examined according to their identity status. Subjects completed self-report measures of empathic response style and identity development. Findings for empathic concern, cognitive empathy, and empathic distress are related to identity status…

Developed direct observational measure of children's attachment to inanimate objects such as blankets and soft toys among object-attached and non-object-attached 15- to 31-month-olds. Procedure varied arousal levels across situations. Found support for validity of the procedure in, among other factors, its ability to capture the preference of…

Investigates undergraduate students' judgments regarding the degree to which relationships with celebrity idols influenced their sense of identity and feelings of self-worth. Discusses the characteristics of the sample of idols participants reported as well as descriptive data concerning the degree to which participants perceived these idols as…

A model is presented that proposes environmental conditions for creative producers which result in responses that include the development of several key personality characteristics, such as a preference for time alone, an ability to cope with anxiety, freedom from conventionality, and the use of intellectual activities to fulfill emotional needs.…

Examines the decisionmaking of children with emotional and behavioral disorders. These youths' socially dysfunctional boundaries and thwarted border crossings are revealed semiotically. (Author/VWL)

Describes the development of attachment of infant to parent or caregiver during infancy. Explores the impact of attachment, whether good or poor, on later development, and factors contributing secure or insecure/anxious attachment. Notes that obstacles to secure attachment can often be overcome with counseling. (HTH)