Rotter's (1966) "control of reinforcement" construct is a dimension of belief or expectancy about the locus of reinforcing consequences for behavior. A generalized disposition is represented which ascribes reinforcement contingencies to either "external" (and, hence, uncontrollable) factors or to "internal" sources in which case the individual…

The behavior of people in abusing the environment and practices of sanitarians in dealing with these people are reviewed. The need for developing new mechanisms for changing environmental behavior is assessed based on the concept that environmental deficiences are symptoms of behavioral problems. (BL)

This program organizes and focuses "peer group attention" upon a 'focus person.' This person has volunteered and has set his personal goals which he hopes to turn into real action with the help of the peer group. A schedule of peer group reinforcement helps to transform his goals into habits. The program can be introduced generally, for class…

Presents a bibliography of 59 books, journal articles, and web sites for further reading on preventing and responding to children's challenging behaviors. (SD)

Utilizes the Perspectives on Adolescent Decision-Making Questionnaire to study the transition to adolescence and the changes it involves for the family. The instrument examines 21 issues that can lead to conflict. The instrument was completed by 500 Italian adolescents ages 13 and 15. Sensitivity to age and sex differences was examined.…

Planning, funding and operating anti-poverty programs require skilled community organizers. Training organizers deals with problems of how to motivate others and what tactics should be used when difficulty is encountered. Two approaches to these problems determined by images of 20th Century Man have been employed: (1) rational economic man who…

The paper considers whether precise control over the actions, thoughts, emotions, and desires of individuals is desirable. New technological methods for controlling human behavior enable systematic manipulation of people and promise an even greater degree of manipulation in the near future. Arguments for and against behavior control are presented.…

Discusses the use of behavioral assessment for both descriptive and program evaluation purposes. Notes the use of behavioral assessment to study coaching behaviors and their effects on young athletes. Operant and cognitive-behavioral interventions have proven effective in both athletic and psychosocial outcomes. Discusses unresolved issues and…

The Pacific State Hospital conducted a demonstration experiment with 12 severely and profoundly mentally retarded male adolescents, which concentrated on modifying disruptive, bothersome behaviors while developing basic work skills required for daily activity in sheltered workshops. The experiment provided an integrated program for an entire day,…