Elaborates the concept of "keystone target variable selection" for school psychological practice. "Keystone variables" refers to relatively narrow targets for change having the most widespread benefits to clients. The hypothesized benefits of selecting keystone targets for change include more effective and efficient interventions. (KW)

This article discusses theory and practice issues relating to learning disabilities. A chronology of theoretical models in the field, including medical, psychological process, behavioral, and cognitive/strategy models, is offered. Seven steps useful in implementing learning strategies are described. (Author/PB)

This article describes a cognitive-behavioral treatment package for relapse management in adolescents who stutter. The package includes game-based training techniques in problem solving, communication skills, and assertiveness; coping responses for stuttering episodes; and realistic expectations for fluency and relapse. Follow-up results with…

This article discusses legal requirements for developing functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention plans, especially as they pertain to disciplinary actions. This discussion is followed by an outline of elements related to behavioral intervention planning with specific guidelines for school personnel who seek to put such plans…

Offers 24 strategies currently in use for designing an effective, multi-dimensional behavioral program for a student with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Suggests that these interventions, none of which involve medication, can be carried over into the home environment to better help the child generalize between situations. (MKA)

This paper is set against the backdrop of an increasing number of strategies and policies developed by the Department for Education and Skills in the U.K. regarding the promotion of positive mental health in schools and the recognition of the value of improving mental health in relation to children's learning, achievement, attendance and…

This report presents specific recommendations for the continuing improvement of the elementary education provided by Dade County Public Schools (DCPS), Florida. Following a list of the 31 major recommendations and an introduction, the recommendations are discussed in greater detail. This discussion is organized around these themes: (1) setting and…

A teaching model is a distinct set of ordered steps or phases created to achieve certain outcomes. These outcomes are different for different models, although some similarities exist among certain models, thus permitting the formation of model "clusters." These clusters or families include the information processing family, personal family, social…

The 15 chapters of this handbook for teachers and administrators draw together the results of discipline research and a number of successful programs and policies from around the country. Chapter 1 considers curriculum deficiencies, family problems, and diet as causes of disruptive behavior. The second chapter describes the characteristics of…

The author supports the promotion of mental health for deaf individuals through improved and expanded mental health services. To illustrate the psychological, educational, vocational, and social implications of deafness, Chapter 1 presents a profile of the deaf individual with emphasis on the communication barriers which exist at each stage of…

Contemporary research on test anxiety shows that there are a number of sources of such anxiety: expectations of parents or teachers; association of grades with personal worth; fear of alienating parents, family, or friends; a feeling of lack of control over one's life. This paper discusses these sources of test anxiety, reviews some of the…

School-based training programs for personal and social coping skills have shown evidence of effectiveness in primary prevention of substance abuse. Early intervention programs for students most at risk are also needed, such as peer intervention, student assistance, and behavioral self-management programs in the areas of smoking and alcohol/drug…

This paper discusses the occurrence of challenging behaviors in adult men dually diagnosed with cerebral palsy and mental retardation, the dynamics that underlie problematic interactions with staff and peers, and strategies with which to address these behaviors. The vicious cycle that occurs when a client with cerebral palsy and mental retardation…

Various self-report test anxiety instruments were examined with attention given to their reliability and validity. Treatments directed toward test worry were more effective than treatments directed toward test emotionality. Self-reported test anxiety was found to decrease as a result of most treatment including pseudotherapy. (Author/CP)

This article reviews technology research (n=20) with students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in five categories: computer-assisted instruction, computer-based cognitive training, biofeedback training, assessment, and behavior modification. Analysis of available research suggests there is little well controlled experimental…