A study involving 24 5-year-old children and their mothers was conducted to examine the relationship between children's oppositional behavior and the following two variables: number of commands issued and time from command presentation. (Author/SBH)

Social information-processing patterns in 9- through 12-year olds at least partially supported 3 hypotheses: only reactive-aggressive children would demonstrate hostile biases in their attributions of intentions in provocation situations; only proactive-aggressive children would evaluate aggression in positive ways; and proactive-aggressive…

In a speech, Boston University (Massachusetts) president Jon Westling used "Somnolent Samantha" as an example of potential for student abuse of identification as learning disabled. Because Samantha was fictitious, 10 students have sued the university, charging Westling with holding an unfair view of students with learning disabilities.…

This article considers the perseverative and passive behavior patterns common in children with intellectual disabilities and often the focus of educational interventions. It suggests that, instead of always being an impediment to progress, these behaviors may sometimes be appropriate and adaptive responses of a slow mind to coping in a world that…

Compared Coyne's interpersonal model of depression to Lewinsohn's social skill model of depression in a large sample of nonreferred college students (N=202). Contrary to both Coyne and Lewinsohn, no evidence of a direct relation between social support and depression was found. Results suggest social skills deficits are a consequence, not a cause,…

Reviews literature on drinking among college students and reports gender variations in drinking patterns and problems among this population. Examines incidence of drinking, frequency and consumption of drinking, gender differential, beverage preferences, drinking locations, and drinking problems. Concludes that higher percentage of college men…

The play behaviors of three groups of preschool children were compared. The physically abused children (N=11) were more antisocial, disruptive, and aggressive yet passive. The 15 sexually abused children were relatively quiet and engaged in more female-type activities, while 10 non-abused control group children exhibited more positive peer…

Individuals with developmental disability (n=400) were assessed with the "Dyskinesia Identification System: Condensed User Scale" (DISCUS), a 15-item tardive dyskinesia rating scale shortened from the "Dyskinesia Identification System-Coldwater." Based on interrater reliability, 2-week stability, and other analyses, DISCUS is…

Analyzes the effects of particularly cold, particularly hot, and widely changeable days upon pupil behavior in order to test the teacher folklore maxim that pupil behavior is linked to the weather. Identifies the strength and order of weather variables which are predictive of the number of disruptive pupil referrals. (KO)

The effectiveness of Auditory Integration Training (AIT) in 8 autistic individuals (ages 4-21) was evaluated using repeated multiple criteria assessment over a 3-month period. Compared to matched controls, subjects' scores improved on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist and Fisher's Auditory Problems Checklist. AIT did not decrease sound sensitivity.…

The frequency of sexual behaviors among 251 preschoolers attending Swedish day-care centers was evaluated. Some behaviors were frequently occurring (like clinging body contact) whereas others were very uncommon (touching an adult's genitals). Correlations between age and single behaviors were seen as manifestations of the socialization process.…

Examined the psychopathological morbidity of criminal children and teenagers from a diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventative point of view. Studied the young offenders' histories, their behavior patterns and personalities at the time the actual criminal act took place, and how subjects coped with the judicial procedure during the following…

Interviews with 60 female victims (ages 7-12) of sexual abuse found that most viewed relationships with their mothers as warm and accepting. Girls who perceived lower maternal rejection had higher competency ratings and fewer behavior problems. Abuse involving force was correlated with lower victim competency. More violent abuse was correlated…

Drug users who participate in outdoor education pose a potentially dangerous situation. Tables detail how drug users feel and act when using certain drugs and provide other information on commonly abused drugs. This information may help outdoor facilitators to identify symptoms and to deal with drug-induced states. (KS)

Girls Incorporated suggests behavior changes that demonstrate how anyone can be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of girls and young women. Behaviors are suggested for the environments of family, school, community, workplace, and nation. (LZ)