Presents five steps to understanding and assessing Huckleberry Finn's decision-making process: (1) determining options; (2) describing the "system" of thinking that justifies one option over another; (3) observing which option is chosen; (4) determining how that supporting "system" rationalizes choice; and (5) assessing whether…

Delineates a study showing that jurors arriving at different verdicts differ in the way they compute verdicts from a common evidence base rather than in the structure of their evidence bases. Concludes that the legal system's distinction between evidence comprehension and verdict deliberation is a defensible one. (Author/FL)

Examined the applicability of an expectancy/decison model to assertiveness in a nonclinical population. Results suggest that participants consider the consequences of being assertive when making a decision about how to behave. Training programs should take into account the participant's perceptions of the risks involved in being assertive.…

Compared the 40 "best" (most congruent with values) and 40 "worst" decision makers on the Career Decision Simulation. The "best" decision makers were significantly more persistent in immediately seeking information about an occupation that seemed to match one of their most important personal work values. (Author)

Presents a theoretical framework for viewing adolescent contraceptive usage. The problem-solving process is used for developmentally examining the competencies that must be present for effective contraceptive use, including: problem recognition, motivation, generation of alternatives, decision making and implementation. Each aspect is discussed…

The following categories of research on choice behavior of individuals with severe developmental disabilities are reviewed: assessing their choice making, building choice opportunities in daily contexts, and evaluating the effects of choice making. Research suggests that most people with severe developmental disabilities are capable of making…

Research findings and theories regarding adolescent contraceptive use are reviewed to propose an alternative framework relying on social learning theory. Environmental context, cognitive influences, and behavior execution constraints are suggested as the foundation for contraceptive behaviors. The behavioral skills teenagers need to use birth…

This paper will provide readers with insight into "Team Building and Decision-Making" curriculum methods and strategies utilized in leadership for our administrators. The content is based on "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable" by Lencioni (2002). The writer is working on developing a unique cascade of…

Describes a group run by vocational rehabilitation and community mental health professionals for "no-movement clients". Discusses techniques focusing on changing the no-movement characteristics of the clients including commitment building, conflict resolution, goal setting, reinforcement of self-confidence, and job seeking skills. (RC)