Summarizes evidence regarding disparities in health status and access to health services across disadvantaged U.S. populations, reviewing major contributing factors to these disparities, highlighting examples of advocacy approaches that have been conceptualized and implemented in health education efforts, and discussing the role of advocacy aimed…

Literature is reviewed on psychosocial aspects of being female and disabled, as reflected in vocational rehabilitation (VR). Discussed are: status of women with disabilities, contributing causes of inequity with disabled men or nondisabled women, accessibility of VR, lack of women leadership in VR as a factor, and suggested solutions. (Author/JDD)

A study was done of perceptions of equality of opportunities for access to social resources and of social cleavages in Israeli society among Israeli students in grades 8 and 9. The study population included 9,000 students in 273 classes in a national sample of 47 secular junior high schools. Subjects were asked to assess equality of opportunities…

Citing concern over the decline in self-concept and achievement exhibited by middle school girls, this article summarizes ERIC documents and journal articles that explore the factors that impinge on boys' and girls' academic and social lives in the middle grades. Presents annotated bibliographic references for ten items. (SD)

Outlines how school policies can unintentionally perpetuate gender discrimination in student computer use and access. Describes four areas of administrative policies that can cause inequities and provides ways for administrators to counteract these policies. Includes discussion of a program to balance computer use, and an abstract of an article…

Examines level at which gender issues are addressed in middle school science classes. Argues that in the crucial area of science education, particularly for girls at the middle school level, "equal" rather than "equitable" as a dominant teacher attitude may be inadequate to ensure that gender imbalances are rectified. (SD)

Addresses the hypothesis that girls must receive advantaged treatment to achieve a level playing field in the area of science education. Expresses concern that: (1) the result of advantaged treatment is unknown; (2) too much emphasis is placed on the power of textbooks; and (3) too much emphasis is placed on sexism in science versus science in…

Argues that Chattin's criticism in fact illustrates the authors' stand that people are extremely uncomfortable with the idea of a proactive stance toward equity for groups that have traditionally held less than equal status. Addresses each concern, and reiterates that disadvantaged groups must now receive advantaged treatment to catch up. (SD)

Introduces this issue of Middle School Journal. Highlights articles presenting theories concerning how male and female adolescents face the development of self-concept, the dilemma of ensuring gender equity, as well as divergent perspectives on helping both genders develop positive self images about themselves as learners. (SD)

Discusses gender differences in computer literacy and the unsuccessful integration of computer technology and its impact on girls and minorities. Describes a study of fourth graders that investigated attitudes toward books, television, and computers; home access to computers; changes in computer confidence; and links between inequitable access and…

Discusses the need for library media specialists to develop a voice of authority. Discusses insights of the feminist perspective; gender differences and future characteristics of the next generation of librarians; combining strong voices of authority to lead the charge for equitable, fair access for all youth; and national investment in library…