Mental health is different than mental illness. Yet, public and professional's views of mental health often confuses the two terms. This commentary explores what mental health is, what components consist of a mentally healthy person, and how one can improve and enhance mental health among youth.

In this article I argue that evolutionary theorizing can help sociologists and feminists better understand gender inequality. Evolutionary theory explains why control of the sexuality of young women is a priority across most human societies both past and present. Evolutionary psychology has extended our understanding of male violence against…

Encourages the use of assertion training for librarians to aid them in providing reference service, interviewing for employment, and handling difficult patrons. A list of references and a selection of readers' comments on the article is included. (FM)

Assertive behavior promotes the development of mutually satisfying relationships, with none of the disadvantages of passive or aggressive behavior. Because of the interpersonal and organizational benefits, managers should encourage assertive behavior throughout their organizations. (SK)

Public library services are threatened by a national mood of economic conservatism. Librarians should actively combat the threat by defending services, making collective decisions, resisting inflation, seeking federal support, responding to charges from politicians, and increasing efficiency. (FM)

Suggests that connotations of assertiveness do not convey all of its meanings, particularly the components of positive feelings, communication, and cooperation. The application of semantics can help restore the balance. Presents a model for differentiating assertive behavior and clarifying the definition. (JAC)

In this article, the author responds to a teacher's request for advice on what she can do about the bossy behavior of one of her students which she is worried may escalate to bullying. The author provides some strategies on how to help the child who constantly tries to control others. She also suggests finding other attributes besides the child's…

Developing sexual harassment training involves these steps: survey employees, establish policy and reporting procedures, get management commitment, and use programs both to educate about the issues and eliminate unacceptable behavior. (SK)

Discusses four themes related to resolving difficulties in library personnel evaluation: (1) the importance of clearly defining performance evaluation and its goals; (2) negotiation theory for dealing with negative results of personnel evaluation; (3) development of a perspective on conflict management; and (4) assertiveness as a foundation for…

Assertive discipline is a slick response to the genuine frustrations of teachers trying to manage large classrooms of energetic students. Assertive discipline panders to teachers' defensiveness about their work and ignores significant rights that students have. (CJ)

Shares an experience of a 13-year-old boy as he begins to understand the social behaviors of his age group. (MG)

Studies exploring the relationship between religious values and assertiveness are reviewed. Ideological obstacles in assertion training with religious clients are considered, and appropriate therapeutic strategies suggested. Emphasizes importance of presenting rationale for treatment and understanding client's value system. (Author/TE)

Recommends and describes assertive management techniques for dealing with conflicts or problems in libraries: (1) listening to understand problems; (2) stating expectations clearly; (3) focusing attention on the real issue; (4) explaining situational givens; (5) compromising/negotiating when possible; (6) being persistent and patient; (7) giving…

Examines the use of the small group modality for providing helping services in religious settings and the use of religious-spiritual content in small helping groups. Includes a review and critique of various types of services, including group therapy, marital treatment, marriage enrichment, growth groups, and assertion training. (Author/ABB)

Assertiveness training could be more widely used by vocational rehabilitation counselors who have emotionally disturbed clients. It is easily understood by clients and focuses on daily living experiences. It is effective for clients who have feelings of anxiety, depression, or inadequacy. Clients' response to this training can be used as an…